Extension

Most homeowners own and operate some type of lawnmower, but caution is always needed when operating one. Mowing may seem like an easy task, but safety measures must be followed.

 

For a lot of teens, mowing may be their first work experience. This is when safety measures are a must, especially for younger operators. Push mowers are the most commonly used mowers, and manufacturers recommend that operators be at least 14 years old. Read the manual before operating the machine.

 

Lawn maintenance starts before firing up the mower. Pets and children should be indoors when the mower is used to avoid objects and dust that the equipment can throw. Walk the lawn and remove rocks, sticks, trash, toys and other debris that could cause a tripping hazard or could get thrown during mowing.

 

As a safety precaution, only push the mower forward – don’t pull it back toward the operator. While mowing, avoid throwing grass clippings into the neighbor’s yard, into the street or toward cars, windows and people. Mow only during daytime hours to help ensure you can see where you’re mowing. Also, make sure the protective blade flap is in the proper position. It can be tempting to flip up the flap to help prevent grass clippings from clogging the blade, but the flap helps keep clippings and debris from being launched by the spinning blade.

 

Homeowners who have put off mowing for a while, the thick grass can cause the blade to slow down or come to a near stop. To help prevent this issue, simply slow down the mower’s forward speed to give the blade a chance to keep up. If the blade becomes stuck, turn off the mower and remove the spark plug cap before attempting to clear the blade. Never reach under the mower when the motor is running.

 

A landscape that slopes can be a challenge to mow.  For safety, mow across the slope, from side to side, instead of up and down the slope. Losing control of a mower on a steep slope can be easy. Plus, mowing across the slope results in a more even mow.

 

Some consumers have opted for electric mowers, which come in cordless and corded options. Cordless electric mowers pose the same safety hazards as gasoline-powered mowers. Corded mowers add the potential threat of electrical shock. Keeping track of the cord while mowing is imperative because the blade can slice through the cord like melted butter. This can create a circuit that connects you, the mower and the electrical voltage running through the power cord.

 

Riding mowers can increase productivity and reduce mowing time, but while fun to operate, safety must be top of mind. Most manufacturers recommend that no one under age 16 operate the machine.

 

Like push mowers, riding mowers can become clogged when used in tall, thick, wet grass. This issue can be avoided by maintaining a slow speed forward. Disengage the blade when moving in reverse. Unlike a push mower, a riding mower should be driven up and down slopes in the landscape. Driving across can result in the machine tipping over.

 

Mowing is a task that must be tackled, but keeping safety precautions in mind will help ensure everything goes smoothly.