SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
I. GENERAL OPERATIONDO NOT:
?Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manualDo not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
and on the machine before starting.slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with theDo not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The
instructions, to operate the machine.mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause
Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.sliding.
Stop machine if anyone enters the area.Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the
Never carry passengers.ground.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. AlwaysDo not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
look down and behind before and while backing.
III. CHILDREN
Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point
it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either theTragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
entire grass catcher or the guard in place.presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine
Slow down before turning.and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain
Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turnwhere you last saw them.
off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keysKeep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful
before dismounting.care of another responsible adult.
Turn off blades when not mowing.Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
Stop engine before removing grass catcher or uncloggingBefore and when backing, look behind and down for small
chute.children.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.Never allow children to operate the machine.
Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into
a trailer or truck.
IV. SERVICE
Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are
involved in a large percentage of riding mower-relatedUse extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They
injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability toare flammable and vapors are explosive.
operate the riding mower safely enough to protect-Use only an approved container.
themselves and others from serious injury.
-Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
II. SLOPE OPERATIONrunning. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not
smoke.
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover-Never refuel the machine indoors.
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you-Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
Never run a machine inside a closed area.
DO:Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight
and keep equipment in good condition.
Mow up and down slopes, not across.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.operation regularly.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up.
overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before
Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not havestoring.
to stop or shift while on the slope.
Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Follow the manufacturer?s recommendations for wheelRepair, if necessary, before restarting.
weights or counterweights to improve stability.
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.
These can change the stability of the machine.Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage,
and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow
Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do notobjects to be thrown. Frequently check components and
make sudden changes in speed or direction.replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction,necessary.
disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight downMower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or
the slope.wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as
required.
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