Homelite UT20818 manual Specific Safety Rules for Trimmer USE

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

■Product users on United States Forest Service land, and in some states, must comply with fire prevention regula- tions. This product is equipped with a spark arrestor; however, other user requirements may apply. Check with your federal, state, or local authorities.

■Wear eye protection which is marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1 as well as hearing protection when operating this equipment.

■Wear heavy long pants, shoes, and gloves.

■Keep all bystanders, children, and pets at least 50 feet (15 m) away.

■Do not wear loose clothing, or jewelry.

■Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent entanglement in any moving parts.

■Do not operate this trimmer when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

■Do not operate in poor lighting.

■Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach. Overreaching can result in loss of balance or exposure to hot surfaces.

■Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.

■Do not touch area around the muffler or cylinder of the trimmer, these parts get hot from operation.

■Always stop the engine and remove the spark plug wire before making any adjustments or repairs except for carburetor adjustments.

■It has been reported that vibrations from hand-held tools may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syn- drome in certain individuals. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness and blanching of the fingers, usually apparent upon exposure to cold. Hereditary factors, exposure to cold and dampness, diet, smoking and work practices are all thought to contribute to the development of these symptoms. It is presently unknown what, if any, vibrations or extent of exposure may contribute to the condition. There are measures that can be taken by the operator to possibly reduce the effects of vibration:

a)Keep your body warm in cold weather. When operat- ing the unit wear gloves to keep the hands and wrists warm. It is reported that cold weather is a major factor contributing to Raynaud’s Syndrome.

b)After each period of operation, exercise to increase blood circulation.

c)Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of exposure per day.

d)Keep the tool well maintained, fasteners tightened and worn parts replaced.

If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition, immediately discontinue use and see your physician about these symptoms.

■Mix and store fuel in a container approved for gasoline.

■Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames. Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 30 ft. (9 m) away from refueling site before starting engine.

■Stop the engine and allow to cool before refueling or storing the unit.

■Allow the engine to cool; empty the fuel tank and secure the unit from moving before transporting in a vehicle.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR TRIMMER USE

■Replace string head if cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Be sure the string head is properly installed and securely fastened. Failure to do so can cause serious injury.

■Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are properly and securely attached.

■Use only the manufacturer's replacement string in the cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment.

■Never operate unit without the grass deflector in place and in good condition.

■Maintain a firm grip on both handles while trimming. Keep string head below waist level. Never cut with the string head located over 30 in. (76 cm) or more above the ground.

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