Husqvarna 96143004500 Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers, II. Slope Operation

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind 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.

Look for this symbol to point out im- portant safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its con- stituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

•Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.

•Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equip- ment,beforecleaningthemoweroruncloggingthechute.

•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.

•Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing: keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.

• D i s e n g a g e t h e s e l f - p r o p e l l e d m e c h a - n i s m o r d r i v e c l u t c h o n m o w e r s s o 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 operating mower.

II. 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.

	DO:
CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts	• Mowacrossthefaceofslopes:neverupanddown. Exer-
become extremely hot during operation	ciseextremecautionwhenchangingdirectiononslopes.
and remain hot after engine has stopped.	• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away	• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide
from these areas.	obstacles.

		DO NOT:
		• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or embankments.
I. GENERAL OPERATION		The operator could lose footing or balance.
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the		• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
		• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could
machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be
thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper		cause slipping.
use of the machine before starting.		III. CHILDREN
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.		Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
• Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar		the presence of children. Children are often attracted to
with the instructions, to operate the machine.		the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,		children will remain where you last saw them.
bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and		• Keep children out of the trimming area and under the
thrown by the blade.		watchful care of another responsible adult.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mow-		• Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the
ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.		area.
• Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing		• Before and while walking backwards, look behind and
open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.		down for small children.
• Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely nec-		• Never allow children to operate the machine.
essary. Always look down and behind before and		• Useextracarewhenapproachingblindcorners,shrubs,
while moving backwards.		trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
• Never direct discharged material toward anyone.		IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruc-
tion. Material may richochet back toward the operator.		Use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is ex-
Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.
		tremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
• Do not operate the mower without proper guards,
		• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
plates, grass catcher or other safety protective devices
		sources of ignition.
in place.
		• Use only an approved container.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation
		• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
and installation of accessories. Only use accessories
		running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.
approved by the manufacturer.	2