Most weekends, often beginning with the long Memorial Day weekend, I notice most of my neighbors (along with myself) are busy with lawn and garden care.
A survey conducted by Briggs & Stratton showed that nearly 47 percent of all homeowners work on their yards on that long weekend.
It was then that I remembered the safety tips I received when I purchased a John Deere riding mower, guidelines that can be applied to any power lawn equipment, and are useful to keep in mind whenever you work outside.
- Make sure you are properly dressed. This means wearing proper clothing even when it's hot including long pants, a tucked-in shirt and close-toed shoes.
- Be sure to clear the yard of toys, tools and yard debris that could get thrown by the blade.
- Riding mower manufacturers suggest mowing across hills for better stability.
- When operating lawn and garden equipment, use full eye protection to protect yourself from flying debris.
- Always look behind you when reversing a riding mower. More than once I've seen a child or an adult approach the operator of a riding mower from behind. No matter how loud you shout, the rider can't hear you.
- Proper maintenance of powered equipment leads to safer equipment. Mowers should be checked for loose hardware to maintain well-running machines and prevent accidents.
- All safety systems and shields should be checked routinely and repaired to prevent operator injury.
- Oil and fluids should be changed and disposed of correctly to minimize environmental impact and properly stored to protect children and pets.
- Children and pets should remain inside under adult supervision during lawn mower maintenance and operation.
- Air filters should be cleaned and free from debris to increase engine performance and minimize exhaust. Refuel gasoline engines in an open space (not a garage or shed) only after the engine has cooled to reduce the chances of an explosion or fire.
- Avoid all contact with the mower's deck once the engine is in operation and the blades are engaged.
- Under no circumstances should children be allowed to ride on or play with a riding mower or any attachments.
- Children under the age of 16 should not be allowed to operate a riding mower.
- Never step on a mower deck as a way of mounting a riding mower.
(Sources: John Deere and Briggs & Stratton Yardsmarts)
Dwight Barnett is a certified master inspector with the American Society of Home Inspectors. Write to him with home-improvement questions at C. Dwight Barnett, or write to PO Box 268, Evansville, IN 47702 or send him e-mail at d.barnett@insightbb.com.
