RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS •
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING
WARNING: When using the unit, you must follow the safety rules. Please read these instructions before operating the unit in order to ensure the safety of the operator and any bystanders. Please keep these instructions for later use.
•Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.
•Do not operate this unit when tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
•Children and teens under the age of 15 must not use the unit, except for teens guided by an adult.
•All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly before operating the unit.
•Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Check for fuel leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure. Replace parts that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.
•Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove all debris and hard or sharp objects such as glass, wire, etc.
•Be aware of the risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.
•Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets. At a minimum, keep all children, bystanders, and pets outside a 50 feet (15 m.) radius; there still may be a risk to bystanders from thrown objects. Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye protection. If you are approached, stop the unit immediately.
•Use only 0.095 inch (2.29 mm) diameter original equipment manufacturer replacement line. Never use
•Squeeze the throttle control and check that it returns automatically to the idle position. Make all adjustments or repairs before using unit.
SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS UNITS
•Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and approved for the storage of such materials.
WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable, and its vapors can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:
•The cutting attachment shield must always be in place while operating the unit. Do not operate unit without both trimming lines extended, and the proper line installed. Do not extend the trimming line beyond the length of the shield.
•This unit has a clutch. The cutting attachment remains stationary when the engine is idling. If it does not, have the unit adjusted by an authorized service technician.
•Adjust the
•Be sure the cutting attachment is not in contact with anything before starting the unit.
•Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.
•Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position whenever pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting. See Starting/Stopping Instructions.
•Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose intended.
•Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.
•Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip on both the front and rear handle or grips.
•Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop the cutting attachment when it is rotating.
•Do not touch the engine or muffler. These parts get extremely hot from operation. They remain hot for a short time after you turn off the unit.
•Do not operate the engine faster than the speed needed to cut, trim or edge. Do not run the engine at high speed when you are not cutting.
•Always stop the engine when cutting is delayed or when walking from one cutting location to another.
•If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the engine immediately and check for damage. Do not operate before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.
•Stop and switch the engine to off for maintenance, repair, or for changing the cutting attachment or other attachments.
Use only original equipment manufacturer replacement parts and accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service dealer. Use of any unauthorized parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.
•Keep unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They may become lodged between the cutting attachment and shield.
•Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.
•Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the fuel tank. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank, or add fuel, when the engine is hot. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place. Loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank.
•Mix and add fuel in a clean,
•Move the unit at least 30 feet (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site before starting the engine. Do not smoke or allow sparks and open flames near the area while adding fuel or operating the unit.
WHILE OPERATING
•To reduce fire hazard, replace faulty muffler and spark arrestor, keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or carbon build up.
OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS
•Never store the unit, with fuel in the tank, inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
•Allow the engine to cool before storing or transporting. Be sure to secure the unit while transporting.
•Store the unit in a dry area, locked up or up high to prevent unauthorized use or damage, out of the reach of children.
•Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean after each use. See the Cleaning and Storage instructions.
•Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them to instruct other users. If you loan someone this unit, also loan them these instructions.
•Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Operate this unit only in a well ventilated outdoor area.
•Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI
•Wear heavy, long pants, boots and gloves. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.
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