Be Safe With Your Lawn Mower

You may be surprised at the number of people who are injured as a result of lawn mowing accidents

. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that in 2007 there were 210,000 people who were treated for mowing-related injuries. Almost ten percent of them were children aged 19 and under. Research shows that the rate of accidents is increasing, especially among young children and adults over the age of 60.

Common injuries result from debris--rocks, branches, etc.--sent flying out from the mower's blades. This, as well as more direct contact with the machine, can cause serious accidents usually involving deep cuts, burns, broken and dislocated bones, and the loss of toes and fingers. And it's not just the user of the mower who is at risk. People standing nearby can, and often do, sustain harm.

These tragedies can be avoided by observing the following practical safety tips:

First, know your machinery. Read the owner's manual before using your lawn mower. Be familiar with its safety features. Use a mower that will not move when the handle is released. Do not loosen any nuts or bolts, and never pull a push mower. Make sure the mower is in good condition before you take it out of the garage.

Second, don't let children use the mower unless they are big enough. This means they are not only levelheaded and responsible but also familiar with the operation and safety features of the machine. Supervise them closely, especially if they're only just learning how to use it. Children younger than 16 should not drive riding mowers. Children younger than 12 should not use walking mowers. Absolutely never give a small child a ride on a riding mower.

Third, scan your lawn before you mow. Pick up any rocks, branches, or toys. Make sure you know where the sprinkler head and valve boxes are so you don't run into them. Know the terrain. Steep slopes can be dangerous and can flip a mower over. Mow across a slope, not up and down it, and use a walk-behind mower. Most importantly, keep any children and pets away from the area while you mow.

Fourth, wear sensible clothing. Put on sturdy shoes and long pants--not shorts and flip-flops. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing. You may want to also wear eye protection such as safety glasses.

Fifth, use common sense. Do not fuel the mower while it is still running. Turn it off and wait at least ten minutes for it to cool. Do not fill the tank while the mower is on the lawn. If the gas spills, clean it up immediately. Put gasoline-soaked rags, an obvious fire hazard, in a safe place such as a covered metal can. Do not work on the engine of a mower that is still running and do not leave a running mower unattended. Above all, be alert and aware of your surroundings.

by: Art Gib

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