Lawn Mower Safety
Guidelines on Lawn mower Safety
What would we do without lawn mowers? They're so helpful, but they can also be very dangerous. Lawn mower safety should be something you teach the whole family.
Try to use a mower that has a safety on it that shuts it off if you let go of the handle. This will keep family members from running over toes if they slip and fall while mowing.
Don't allow children under 16 years of age to drive a riding mower. And don't allow children younger than 12 to use walk-behind power mowers. Make sure that sturdy shoes (no sandals, NO bare feet) are worn while mowing.
Pick up objects from the lawn before you begin mowing. Toys, branches or stones can fly through the air and result in injuries. It's a good idea to use a bag to collect the grass as it is expelled from the mower.
Have anyone who uses a mower wear hearing protection and goggles. Do not put your hands or feet near or under the mower at any time. This is an especially important lawn mower safety tip.
Make sure that your children and their friends and pets are out of the yard area that is being mowed.
Be sure to refuel, add oil and start mowers outside of garden sheds or garages. Make sure that you only refuel the mower when the mower is turned off, and cool to the touch.
Ensure that blade settings, to trim higher or lower, are done by an adult, not a child. This should be done with the mower engine off and the spark plug disconnected, to avoid accidental starting.
It is much safer if you do not pull the mower backwards or mow in reverse, unless you have to. Check carefully for children and pets behind you if you mow in reverse.
Be sure to turn your mower off and wait for the blades to stop completely, before removing the grass catcher, crossing paths, roads, or other areas.
Don't let anyone ride with you on a riding mower. They are designed and safe only for one person. Wear clothing that doesn't fit loosely, on riding and behind power mowers.
Keep riding mowers on level ground. Riding sideways on hills or slopes can cause a roll-over. Keep both feet on the footrests of a riding mower. Keep all guards and safety shields in place.
Store gasoline in a properly marked container in a well-ventilated area. Never over-fill the fuel tank. Be sure to replace the cap and tighten it. Provide routine maintenance on all mowing equipment.
This probably should go without saying, but to make this lawn mower safety list complete, never smoke when filling the gas tank.