Snapper SPE1250KW, SPE140KW, SPE150KH, SPE360, SPE480 Important Safety Instructions, Preparation

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.

2.DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is operated (even with the blades OFF).

3.DO NOT allow children or others to ride on machine or on attachments (even with the blades OFF). They may fall and be seriously injured.

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

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

6.DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES. LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets and hazards before and while backing.

7.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. Practice operation of machine on slopes with blades off.

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

4.DO NOT use tow behind attachments on slopes.

5.AVOID uphill starts.

6.DO NOT operate machine under any condition where traction, steering or stability is doubtful.

PREPARATION

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

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

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 from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5.Practice operation of machine with BLADES OFF to learn controls and develop skills.

6.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.

7.Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately, STOP blades, STOP engine, and Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

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

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

10.Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, long pants and substantial footwear.

11.Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

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

13.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 worn spots.

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