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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,
L GENERAL OPERATmON
eRead, understand, and follow alt instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting,
Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade,
oBe sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area,
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse untess absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
eBe aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
Slow down before turning.
Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting,
Turn off btades when not mowing.
Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways,
Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.
I1. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
DO:
-Mow up and down slopes, not across.
o Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
oWatch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheet weights or counterweights to improve stability.
-Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.
•Keep nit movement on the slopes sfowand gradual Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage th'eblades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
oDo not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
•Do not mow near
=Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.
oDo not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.
, | Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes. | 2 |
I& CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to th_ presence of children, Children are often attracted to the machin_
and the mowing activi_. Never assume that children will remair_ where you last saw them.
oKeep children out of the mowing area and under the watchfu! care of another responsible adult.
oBe alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.
Before and when backing, _ook behind and down for smali children.
Never carry children, They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with the safe machine operation.
Never allow cNdren to operate the machine.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
oUse extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
Use only an approved container.
*Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engine to coo_ before refueling. Do no_. smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.
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.
. Keep nuts and bolts, especiafiy 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
"Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
oGrass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which coutd expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when neck. essary.
oMower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
oCheck brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required.
Look for this syr_bo_ to point out impor-
tant safety precautions, _t means
CAW]ON.q. v BECOI_EALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY iS iNVOLVED°
CAUTaON: Amways disconnect spark
contact spark p_ug in order to prewnt plug wire and #face wire where it cannot accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs,