Snapper EP217019BV Important Safety Instructions, From Previous Column

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).

PROTECTION FOR 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.

1.KEEP children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.

2.DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated and turn machine OFF if anyone enters the area.

3.DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate machine.

4.ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.

5.DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets and hazards before and while backing.

6.USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1.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.

2.Mow across slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise extreme CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. DO NOT mow steep slopes or other areas where stability or traction is in doubt.

3.Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments; these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.

PREPARATION

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3.Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved in a large percentage of mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4.Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5.Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note the location of holes, stumps, and other possible hazards.

6.Keep people and pets out of the mowing area. Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop mower if anyone enters the area.

7.Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and other safety devices frequently for proper operation and location.

8.Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged.

9.Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. DO NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

10.Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

11.Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

12.Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent injury from thrown objects going through weak or torn spots.

PREPARATION

1.Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in this manual and on the mower, engine and attachments. Know the controls and the proper use of the mower before starting.

2.Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine and only after proper instruction.

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive

1.Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

2.Use only an approved fuel container.

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