What holds your family's photos and fine artwork on the walls? Most likely you have leftover hooks, screws, and nails in the drywall or plaster. Even though you may know the location of each hanger or nail, the movers don't.

A tight hallway or stairway can make it tricky for movers to maneuver. Add in nails (or other sharp hangers) that stick out of the wall and you have a recipe for a serious scratch. Remove hangers and nails and place them somewhere safe for the mover. In some cases, you can reuse these items when you hang your pictures and artwork in your new house.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five falls results in a serious injury. Area rugs and runners (including in hallways and on stairs) pose a trip and fall hazard — especially when there's no furniture to hold them down.

Roll up all area rugs and runners before the movers arrive. The same goes for pads or non-slip grips that sit under the rugs. Place the rolled rugs or runners out of the way until the movers have time to put them in the truck.

Where will the movers park their truck? If you have a spacious driveway, you have the perfect place to park. But if you don't have your own driveway or your driveway is too small for the truck, you need to secure safe street parking before your move day.

If you live on a busy road, reduce the traffic-related risks with a spot that allows the movers to access the truck away from the moving cars. You may need to negotiate parking with neighbors or ask your local municipality or city if you can block off an area with traffic cones.

Keep your movers safe in the winter. Clear all exterior walkways and driveways before the contractor arrives. Remove snow and ice and salt the area well. Have a shovel and a bag of rock salt or ice melter handy in case it snows, sleets, or rains mid-move.

Winter isn't the only time you'll need to clear a path to keep the movers safe. During the spring and fall, be sure to remove fallen leaves or branches from walkways and driveway areas. Also, be sure to remove children’s toys from the driveway or walkway when the weather is warm enough for kids to be playing outside.

For the summer, you still need to stay aware of weather-related issues. The hot weather combined with heavy lifting can quickly lead to dehydration. If the electricity is still on, turn up the air conditioner. This gives the movers a cool and comfortable indoor space to recharge in. Along with a cool area, provide the movers with plenty of drinking water and shade as needed.

Accidents happen. Despite your best efforts to increase the safety factor, the mover could cut their hand on your kitchenware, drop a heavy item on their foot, or fall. Prepare for minor injuries with a first aid kit.

You can either buy a ready-made first aid kit or put your own together. A moving day first aid kit should include bandages, alcohol wipes, gauze, medical tape, scissors, antibacterial cream or gel, cotton swabs, and cold packs.

Do you need expert help with your next move? Contact O'Sullivan Moving & Storage Co. for more information.