SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Tow 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.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.
•Read this operator’s manual carefully. Become familiar with the controls and know how to operate your mower properly.
•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.
•Be 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 unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
•Slow down before turning.
•Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, and stop engine.
•Turn off blades when not mowing.
•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.
•Do not attempt to operate your tractor or mower when not in drivers seat.
•Disengage power to mower, stop engine when transporting or not in use.
•Exercise special care when mowing around fixed objects in order to prevent the blades from striking them. Never deliberately run tractor or mower onto or over any foreign object.
•Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and as described in this manual.
•Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in any manner. Always have damage repaired before using your mower.
•Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when starting and while using your mower.
•Dress properly. Do not operate mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Wear only solid shoes with good traction when mowing.
•Always make cutting height adjustments before starting your mower. New attempt to do this while the engine is running.
•Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area being cut.
•Do not let other interests distract you.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
•Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower, stop the engine and make absolutely sure the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Then disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
•Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally. Excessive vibration is an indication of damage or unbalanced blades. Stop the engine, safety check for the cause of the vibration and repair as required.
•Never operate your mower without proper guards, plates, or other safety devices in place.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to
DO:
•Mow up and down slopes, not across.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
•Watch 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 tractor manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.
•Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT:
•Do 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.
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 mowing area and under the watchful care of another responsible adult.
•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 corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
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