Self-Propelled Mower Safety Tips

• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used.  Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys, and other foreign objects which could be tripped over or picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like.  Also avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction, which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.
• Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing and adjustment or repair to protect our eyes.  Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes.
• Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting slacks and shirts.  Shirts and pants that cover the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light-weight shoes.
• A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries.
• Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.  Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the handle immediately.
• Never pull the mower back toward you while you are walking.  If you must back the mower away from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and then follow these steps:
• Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.
• Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.
• Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way toward you.