•Always slow the tractor down before turning. Turning at high speed may tip the tractor over.
•To avoid upsets, drive the tractor with care and at a safe speed. Use extra caution when operating over rough ground, when crossing ditches or slopes, and when turning corners.
•Wear sturdy work shoes. Never operate the tractor in bare feet, sandals, or sneakers.
•Do not wear loose fitting clothes or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts.
•When towing equipment, use safety chains and place an SMV emblem on the equipment.
•Any towed vehicle with a total weight exceeding that of the tractor should be equipped with its own braking system that is operational from the tractor seat.
2. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and
DO:
•Operate up and down slopes, not across.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide such obstacles.
•Place the transmission in the low range. when climbing or descending slopes. Always keep machine in gear when going down slopes to take advantage of engine braking action.
•Follow the manufacturers recommendations for counterweights to improve stability.
•Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction. Rapid engagement or braking could cause the front of the machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards which could cause serious injury.
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the PTO and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
•Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
•Never
3. CHILDREN
•Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine. Never assume children will remain where you last saw them.
•Keep children out of the operating area and in watchful care of an adult other than the operator.
•Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
•Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.
•Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
•Never allow children to operate the machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind cor- ners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may obscure your vision of a child or other hazard.
•Remove key when machine is unattended to prevent unauthorized operation.
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