Every year, thousands of Americans are sent to hospitals with injuries caused by lawn mowers. Most of these injuries are preventable. Below are some safety tips you should review to help make sure you don't become an accident victim.
Before Mowing
- Read and understand the owner's manual, which explains how to safely operate the mower.
- Walk through the lawn, picking up debris such as litter, sticks, rocks, kid's toys and other objects that could be thrown from the blade.
- Be sure all safety guards are in place.
While Mowing
- Always start and operate the mower outdoors. Never run a mower in an enclosed area where carbon monoxide can collect, such as in a garage or shed.
- Avoid mowing on wet grass because you could easily slip and fall under the mower. And never use an electrically powered mower on wet grass.
- Only use electrically powered mowers with an extension cord that is designed for outdoor use and rated for the needs of your mower.
- Keep hands and feet away from moving blades.
- Never use your fingers to remove grass from lawn mower blades. The blades can be very sharp.
- Wear shoes with good traction when mowing. Don't mow the lawn barefoot or while wearing sandals.
- Never allow children to play in the yard while you're mowing.
- Don't allow children on riding mowers.
After Mowing
- After you're done mowing, keep children away from the lawn mower because the hot engine can cause a serious burn.
- Make any repairs or adjustments with the mower's engine off, and always disconnect the spark plug when working under the mower's deck, such as when you change the blade or clean under the deck.
- Store gasoline in a container approved by the Underwriters Laboratories. Always fill the mower's gas tank in a well-ventilated area and away from ignition sources.
Republished with permission from The Scotts Company, www.scotts.com.
Copyright 2008 The Scotts Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved
Copyright 2008 The Scotts Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved