•Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.
•Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while
moving backwards.
•Do not operate the mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety protective devices in place.
•See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
•Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
,Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute.
•Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until the blade comes to complete stop before removing grass catcher.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
, Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
o Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.
•Disengage the
equipped before starting the engine (motor).
,If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
•Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operat- ing mower.
U. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
•Mow across the face of slopes: never up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
•Do not trim near
•Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.
IlL CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
•Keep children out of the trimming area and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
•Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
•Before and while walking backwards, look behind and down for small children.
•Never allow children to operate the machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
•Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
-Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow
engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.
-Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
•Never run a machine inside a closed area.
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent acciden- tal starting.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
R