Changing bulbs in more challenging ceiling fixtures

[ny biker]

We have hanging lamps over the entry stairs. I can just reach them from a stepladder on the outside of the railing, but it's pretty scary. By rights we should erect a scaffold on the stairs, or get one of those $200 telescoping ladders, but to change a light bulb I just refuse.

I know someone who broke his knee really badly and spent 6 months in a wheelchair after taking a chance with a ladder. It's not worth the risk.