Ladder Safety in Grand Rapids, MI – Mick’s Story

Mick, a retired tradesman in his 60s living just outside Grand Rapids, Michigan, decided to finally trim the tall hedge his wife, Barb, had been asking him to tackle. It was a hot, humid West Michigan summer afternoon—the kind of day Grand Rapids residents know well—and Mick was already tired, but he just wanted to get the job done.

Like many active retirees in Grand Rapids, Mick prided himself on doing things himself. He had run a physically demanding business for more than 20 years and had broken a few bones in the past. The hedge was more than 10 feet high, so Mick set up two ladders with a plank between them so he could move along the hedge without climbing up and down. To “stabilize” the ladders on the uneven ground, he placed bits of scrap wood under the ladder feet.

With his back leaning against the side of the house and an electric hedge trimmer in hand, Mick thought he had things under control—until the ladders suddenly shifted. In a split second, they gave way underneath him.

Mick fell more than 6 feet to the ground, striking his head on a brick windowsill on the way down.

Barb Hears the Fall

Barb heard the crash from the backyard. When she reached Mick, he was lying on the ground, stunned. His first thought was that he might have broken his neck. He tried moving his fingers and toes—thankfully, he could.

Barb drove Mick to their local Grand Rapids GP clinic. After an initial exam, the doctor urged them to go straight to a Grand Rapids emergency department—one of the major hospitals such as:

  • Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) Butterworth Hospital
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)

At the hospital, imaging revealed the full extent of his injuries. Mick had:

  • Broken his C6 vertebra in his neck
  • Fractured five additional vertebrae in his spine
  • Broken four ribs
  • Suffered severe head trauma; his head swelled “like a bowling ball” from hitting the brick windowsill

The emergency doctor told him, “You don’t know how lucky you are.” A slightly different angle of impact could have left him paralyzed or worse.

Mick was placed in a neck brace and confined to bed to allow his fractures to heal. He spent more than two months at home recovering and was unable to do many of the everyday tasks he’d once taken for granted.

“It still plays out in my head: what if…? I was lying in bed for 8 or 10 weeks and it drove me crazy – so what if I’d been bedridden or confined to a wheelchair for the rest of my life?”

Living With the Consequences of a Ladder Fall

More than a year after the fall, Mick still lives with daily pain. Like many older adults in Grand Rapids who experience serious falls, his injuries changed his life:

  • He has trouble lifting—even helping with the groceries.
  • Mowing the lawn is difficult and exhausting.
  • He can’t sit for long periods without discomfort.
  • Sleeping is challenging because of his neck and back pain.

Mick says he still tries to help around the house, but he simply can’t do everything he used to do. The loss of independence has taken an emotional toll.

“I’ve had my teary moments, wondering what’s the use of being around if I can’t do anything? That’s really hard for men who have done their own work all of their lives.”

Like many West Michigan homeowners, Mick was used to climbing ladders to clean gutters, clear snow from the roofline, or trim trees and hedges. Now, his approach to working at height has completely changed.

How Mick Changed His Ladder Safety Habits

After his injury, Mick decided he would never take ladder safety for granted again.

  • He bought a new ladder with a platform and safety rails, designed to be more stable.
  • Even with the safer ladder, he’s reluctant to climb very high.
  • His son-in-law now helps with tasks like trimming the hedge or cleaning the gutters.
  • Friends and neighbors have also offered to help with jobs that require working at height.

“It’s so hard to let go and pay for someone to do it or ask for help. But I would say to anyone 50 years or older in Grand Rapids: think twice before going up a ladder.”

For older adults—especially those living through icy winters in Grand Rapids where surfaces are often slippery—falls from ladders, steps, and roofs are a major cause of serious injury. Broken bones, spinal injuries, and head trauma are common outcomes, and recovery can be long and frustrating.

Ladder Safety Tips for Grand Rapids Homeowners

Whether you live in Heritage Hill, East Grand Rapids, Wyoming, or on acreage outside the city, ladder safety is critical—especially if you’re over 50 or living with chronic health conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or heart disease.

1. Make Sure Your Ladder Is Safe and Right for the Job

  • Choose the correct type of ladder for the task (step ladder, extension ladder, or platform ladder).
  • Check the weight rating and ensure it supports your weight plus tools.
  • Inspect for cracks, bent rungs, loose bolts, or rust before each use.
  • Avoid old, unstable, or homemade ladder setups (like planks between ladders, as Mick used).

2. Work in the Right Conditions

West Michigan weather can change quickly. Always consider:

  • Avoid using ladders in snow, ice, or high winds. Winter in Grand Rapids brings icy driveways, slick decks, and frozen ground—major slip risks.
  • Don’t use metal ladders near power lines or electrical equipment.
  • Avoid working when you’re tired, dizzy, or unwell, or if you’ve taken medications that cause drowsiness.
  • In summer, avoid extreme heat and humidity, which can cause fatigue and dehydration.

3. Set Up Your Ladder Safely

  • Place the ladder on a firm, level surface—never on loose boards, bricks, or stacked wood.
  • Use the 4-to-1 rule for extension ladders: for every 4 feet of height, place the base 1 foot away from the wall.
  • Ensure all ladder feet are secure and non-slip.
  • Fully open step ladders and lock the spreaders in place.
  • Never lean ladders against weak surfaces like gutters or window screens.

4. Work Safely While on the Ladder

  • Always face the ladder and keep three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand).
  • Don’t overreach—keep your belt buckle between the ladder rails. Climb down and move the ladder instead.
  • Carry tools in a tool belt or pull them up with a rope—don’t climb while holding heavy or bulky items.
  • Don’t stand on the top rung or top cap of a ladder.
  • Avoid working alone if you’re older or at higher risk of falls—ask someone to stay nearby.

When to Get Medical Help After a Fall in Grand Rapids

If you or someone you know has fallen from a ladder and may be seriously injured:

  • Call 911 immediately if there is:
    • Neck, back, or head injury
    • Loss of consciousness
    • Severe pain
    • Heavy bleeding
    • Difficulty moving arms or legs

Emergency departments in Grand Rapids include:

  • Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital – Emergency Department
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids – Emergency Care
  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health) Emergency Department

Even if you think you are “fine,” it’s important to be checked by a healthcare professional. Some spinal or head injuries are not obvious right away.

Local Resources in Grand Rapids, MI for Falls, Mobility, and Support

If you’ve had a fall or are worried about your balance, strength, or mobility, there are local resources that can help reduce your risk of future falls.

Talk to Your Healthcare Providers

  • Your GP (primary care doctor)
    Can review your medications, check your balance and strength, and refer you to specialists.

  • Physiotherapist (Physical Therapist)
    Can design a tailored exercise program to improve strength, balance, and coordination, reducing your risk of falls.

Major health systems in Grand Rapids offering physical therapy and rehabilitation include:

  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) Rehabilitation Services
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids Rehabilitation
  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health) Physical Therapy
  • Mercy Health outpatient rehab locations in the Grand Rapids area

Public Health and Community Resources

  • Kent County Health Department
    Offers information on fall prevention, chronic disease management, and community health programs.
    Website: search “Kent County Health Department falls prevention”

  • Grand Rapids Public Health & Community Programs
    Check the City of Grand Rapids or local senior centers for balance classes, senior fitness, and wellness programs.

  • Council on Aging / Senior Services in West Michigan
    Look for local organizations that support older adults with home safety assessments and referrals for home modification.

Exercise Programs for Strength and Balance

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls, especially for older adults. In the Grand Rapids area, look for:

  • Senior fitness classes at local YMCAs, community centers, and churches
  • Tai chi, yoga, and balance classes designed for older adults
  • Hospital-based falls and mobility clinics or geriatric assessment programs

Ask your doctor for referrals to programs that are right for your age, health, and fitness level.

Emotional Support After a Serious Fall

A serious fall, like Mick’s, doesn’t just affect your body. It can also impact your mood, confidence, and sense of independence. Feelings of frustration, sadness, or depression are common—especially for people who have always been independent and hands-on.

If you’re struggling emotionally after a fall:

  • Talk to your primary care provider about how you’re feeling.
  • Ask for a referral to a counselor, psychologist, or social worker.
  • Reach out to family, friends, or local support groups for older adults in Grand Rapids.

You’re not alone, and support is available.

Key Takeaway for Grand Rapids Residents

Mick’s story is a powerful reminder for homeowners and older adults in Grand Rapids:

  • Ladder falls can be life-changing—even for people who are experienced and physically strong.
  • Age 50 and older is a time to be extra cautious, especially with tasks involving ladders, roofs, and uneven outdoor surfaces.
  • With West Michigan’s icy winters, wet springs, and hot, humid summers, conditions can increase your risk of falls all year round.

If you’re unsure about climbing a ladder, ask for help or hire a professional. Your safety, independence, and long-term health are worth far more than getting a job done quickly.

“Think twice about going up the ladder. It’s not worth risking the rest of your life.”