Tips for Safe Mowing

Spring and Summer bring growing grass and the need for safe mowing practices. Here are a few:

Children should never be in the area being mowed and they should never ride on a mower

Never assume children will remain where you last saw them. Stop mowing if children enter the area.

Know how to operate your mower safely and keep it in good operating condition.

Dress appropriately: sturdy shoes with slip-resistant soles, long pants, eye protection, gloves hearing protection, and no jewelry (can easily get caught in moving parts).

Walk around the area before mowing, picking up any foreign objects including sticks. Nails and wire are the most dangerous objects which, if thrown by the mower, can kill bystanders.

Never mow so that grass and possibly debris is blown out onto sidewalks and streets/roads.

Before making adjustments or clearing jams near moving parts, unplug electric tools and disconnect spark plug wires on gasoline-powered equipment

Handle gasoline carefully. Never fill while machinery is operating or when equipment is extremely hot. Do not fuel indoors. Wipe up spills. Store gas in approved containers. Do not smoke around gasoline..

Submitted by Gregg R. Bollinger, 2^nd Lt, Safety Officer