Summer is now in full gear, and many of us are now mowing the lawn. Some of us love to mow, while others, well, not so much! But no matter what side of the equation you are on, here as a few commonsense safety facts to keep in mind!
- Read the manual: Always read and understand the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer before operating a lawn mower. Familiarize yourself with the specific safety guidelines and features of your particular model.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, and safety glasses or goggles to protect your feet, legs, and eyes from debris that may be thrown by the mower.
- Clear the area: Before starting the mower, remove any stones, toys, branches, or other debris from the lawn to prevent them from becoming projectiles when struck by the mower’s blades.
- Never remove safety features: Do not tamper with or disable any safety features on the lawn mower. These features are designed to protect you and should be kept in proper working order.
- Keep children and pets away: Ensure that children and pets are indoors or in a safe distance away from the mowing area. They should never ride on or be near the mower while it’s in operation.
- Don’t operate in wet conditions: Avoid mowing wet grass or in rainy conditions as it can increase the risk of slipping and losing control of the mower.
- Use caution on slopes: Take extra care when mowing on slopes or uneven terrain. Use a push mower or self-propelled mower designed for such conditions, and mow across the slope rather than up and down to reduce the risk of tipping over.
- Refuel safely: Refuel the mower only when the engine is cool and turned off. Store fuel in approved containers and keep them away from ignition sources.
- Use the right equipment: Select the appropriate mower for your lawn size and type. Different mowers (e.g., push, self-propelled, or ride-on) are suitable for different situations, so choose one that matches your needs.
- Disconnect the spark plug: Before performing any maintenance tasks, such as blade sharpening or cleaning, disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
Remember, these are general safety guidelines, and it’s important to refer to your lawn mower’s specific safety instructions and recommendations provided by the manufacturer. Always prioritize safety and exercise caution when operating any machinery.
