Each year many children are injured severely by lawn mowers. Power mowers can be especially dangerous. Children should be at least 12 years of age before operating a push lawn mower, and 16 before driving a riding mower.
For both children and adults, most lawn mower-related injuries can be prevented by following these safety guidelines.
- Wear protective clothing and footwear when mowing. Although it may be more comfortable to wear shorts and flip flops, the exposure to skin means more exposure to injury.
- It’s easy to remember to protect your legs and feet with protective garb, but don’t forget your eyes and ears as well! Dust and dirt can kick up and irritate your eyes so wearing protective eyewear can prevent eye injuries. The roar of the machine can also cause damage to ears so be sure to wear earplugs or a headset.
- Another danger that often goes unanticipated is caused by the exhaust of the mower, which can run up to 240 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to always let the engine fully cool before adding more gas to the tank.
- If a lawn mower hits an object laying in the grass, it can propel it at a speed of nearly 200 mph. Before mowing your lawn be sure to inspect the grass for any objects that could cause injury if kicked up by the mower.
- Young children and pets should not be on or around lawn mowers while in operation.
- Before mowing your lawn, check weather conditions. Do not mow during inclement weather, or when the grass is wet. It is also important to ensure there is plenty of daylight while mowing.
- When mowing on an incline, it is important to mow horizontally when operating a push mower to avoid slipping under blades. This changes however when using a driving mower, as you should mow vertically to avoid
Mowing your lawn should not be a dangerous task, so don’t let it be! If you find yourself in an emergency situation, call 9-1-1 immediately.
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