Ladder safety when everything is still slick

Algae, silt, and a film of Houston humidity turn a simple ranch roof into ice. You have already had a flood. You do not need a broken wrist in a hospital that is still on diversion.

Most tarp jobs that go wrong go wrong on the way up, not on the fastener.

If you feel even a little unsure, you hire the tarp or you catch water inside. That is the whole sermon.

Do this now

1. Skip the roof if lightning is still in the area, the deck is soft, or you are alone and tired.
2. Set the ladder on firm, level ground. Not on a wet slope of silt. Not on a pool of roof runoff.
3. Have a spotter. Wear shoes with actual tread. Keep three points of contact.
4. Stay away from service drops and any line that looks low. Call CenterPoint for a downed line.

The Houston slick

North-face shingles here grow a green film even in a normal year. After a flood, add mud from wind and overspray. Metal awnings and old satellite mounts are worse. If your foot slides once on the first step, you have your answer. Come down. A $300 tarp visit is cheaper than an ambulance. 911 if someone already fell and is hurt.

Ladders and wet ground

The feet will walk out from under you on saturated clay. That is a lot of this county. Use pads or a second person on the base. Do not lean a ladder on a gutter that is already hanging. Do not carry a shop vac up with you. Tools in a bag, or hand them up once you are set.

When “I have to” is a lie

You have to keep water off the kids’ beds. You do not have to be the person on the ridge. Neighbors, church crews, and paid roofers exist. If you take blood pressure meds, if you got no sleep, if you already waded, you are not a stunt show. Catch water. Call someone. Live.

Do this next

1. Blue tarp basics that keep more water out tonight
2. When roof leaks and flood are both happening
3. Commercial providers hub

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