Now that you have started to use your lawn mower once again, keep in mind that it can be dangerous. According to healthychlidren.org, each year about 68,000 people are treated for lawn mower related injuries in the emergency room. Approximately 9,000 of those injuries impact children less than 18 years of age.
Lawn mower injuries can range from a deep cut and the loss of a finger or toe to broken bones and burns or eye injuries. Using the lawn mower in a safe manner is of the highest priority.
Always use a mower with a control that stops the machine from moving forward when the handle is let go. This can bring the mower to an abrupt stop and could easily keep it from rolling over a dangerous object in a yard or from running into a child who runs in front of the mower. All children and pets should be kept inside while the lawn is being mowed, and all toys and other items should be removed from the yard before mowing begins. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children 16 years and younger should not operate a riding mower, while children 12 and younger should not use a walk-behind mower. In addition, never allow children to be a passenger on riding mowers with an adult.
Make sure the person who mows the lawn wears protective sturdy shoes. Sandals and sneakers will not keep your feet safe in case they are run over by the lawn mower. Additionally, the mower operator should wear long pants. Even in the summer heat, consider wearing jeans or other heavy material. The hour or so of uncomfortable sweating is better than a lifelong injury caused by the mower coming in contact with one’s legs. It is also recommended that the mower operator wear protective ear and eyewear.
Always use a mower with a collection bag for grass clippings or a discharge shield that covers the opening where cut grass is released. This will ensure anything the mower picks up which is not grass can be collected easily instead of it turning into a projectile.
While you are mowing, avoid pulling it backward while the mower blade is engaged. Never walk away from a lawn mower when it is running, even for a short period of time.
Avoid starting or filling your mower’s gas tank while standing in shed or garage. These closed spaces can easily cause toxic fumes to build up in the air. It is much safer to roll the mower outside for refueling and start up. Never smoke or be near an open flame while you are refueling your mower – gas fumes and open fire should not mix.
When removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute or crossing gravel paths and roads, make sure the engine and blade has come to a complete stop. Any adjustments that need to be made to the mower should be done by a responsible adult after the mower has had a chance to cool down properly. Do not store gas or oil in unmarked or unapproved containers.
As always, keep your lawn mower parts in good repair. Annual lawn mower service and needed repairs will extend the life of your mower and ensure it is safe to operate for years to come.
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