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healthychildren.org: Lawn Mower Safety - Information for Families
Lawn Mower Safety
Mowing the lawn is a common household chore that can quickly become dangerous. More than 5,000 children are treated in emergency rooms every year from lawn mower-related injuries. Use the following tips to help prevent lawn mower accidents and injury.
Do not allow kids of any age to ride on lawn mowers or garden tractors with another person. Children should be at least 12 years old to use a walk-behind push mower and at least 16 years old to drive a riding mower. They need have enough strength, coordination, and maturity to operate a mower safely.
Read the mower owner's manual completely, as well as any additional instructions or stickers located on the lawn mower.
Use a mower with safety features that stop the blade and forward motion when the handle is released, if someone stands up from the seat, or if the mower tips or flips over.
Before mowing, make sure children are indoors or a safe distance away from the area. Clear the grass of sticks, rocks, toys, or other debris that could be picked up and thrown by the mower blades.
Always start and refuel a mower outdoors, not inside a garage or shed. Make sure the engine is turned off and completely cool before refueling.
Avoid mowing during bad weather, such as a thunderstorm, or when the grass is wet. The ground will likely be slippery and the wet grass could cause damage to the mower. There is also an increased risk of electrocution if using an electric mower.
Avoid mowing until there is enough daylight to see clearly. Wear sturdy closed-toed shoes, pants, and hearing and eye protection to help prevent injury.
Avoid mowing in reverse unless it is absolutely necessary. Use extreme caution and look carefully behind you for children or any obstacles.
When mowing on a slope with a riding mower, go up and down the hill, not across it. This will help prevent the mower from tipping over.
When using a push mower, mow across the slope rather than up and down to avoid slipping into or underneath the mower.
Always have an adult adjust the blade settings, change the wheel height, and dislodge debris. To make these adjustments, turn the mower off and disconnect or remove the spark plug.
Do you have questions about lawn mower safety?
Call our FREE Safety Store Helpline at 317-274-6565. You can talk live with our staff Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM about your safety questions