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ground. Ifthis is not possible,then refuelsuch equipmentwith a portable container,ratherthan from a gasoline dispensernozzle.
•Keepthe nozzle in contactwith the rim of the fuel tank or containeropeningat all times until fueling is complete.Do not use a
•If fuel is spilled on clothing,change clothing immediately.
•Neveroverfillfuel tank. Replacegas cap and tighten securely.
GENERAL SERVICE
•Never operate machine in a closed are.
•Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure
the equipment is in safe working condi- tion.
•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
•Be sure the area is clear of bystand- ers before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
•Never carry passengers.
•Do not mow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.
•Never carry children, even with the blades shut off. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past may
suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or
backed over by the machine.
•Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a respon- sible adult other than the operator.
•Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the area.
•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
spillage and remove any
storing.
•If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the machine. Repair, if neces- sary, before restarting.
•Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine running.
•Check grass catcher components and the discharge guard frequently and replace with manufacturer's recom- mended parts, when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
•Check brake operation frequently. Ad- just and service as required.
•Maintain or replace safety and instruc- tion labels, as necessary.
•Before and while backing, look behind and down for small children.
•Mow up and down slopes (15 ° Max), not across.
•Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
•Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disen- gage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
•If machine stops while going uphill, disengage blades, shift into reverse and back down slowly.
•Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu- ally downhill, if possible.
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