OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA, Va. – April showers bring May flowers and growing grass. When those showers start, it’s time to start thinking about safe ways to mow that grass. So, in honor of National Outdoor Power Equipment Safety Month, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) reminds equipment owners to review all the important safety steps that apply to lawn mowers, tillers, trimmers and any outdoor power equipment used to beautify lawns throughout the summer. Because this equipment is specially designed to cut, chop and trim, it has characteristics that must be respected from a safety point of view.
OPEI recommends the following safety tips to review in April and follow throughout the mowing season:
- Know how to operate your equipment. Read the operator’s manual before using any power equipment. Know where the controls are located and their function. Follow safety instructions.
- Give your equipment a proper tune-up before the season. Refer to the operator’s manual for proper tune-up instructions. Change the spark plug if necessary. Clean or replace the air filter. Check safety devices to ensure they are attached and working. Change the engine oil. Contact an outdoor power equipment servicing dealer if you are not comfortable doing your own tune-ups.
- Dress properly for the job. Wear long pants, close-fitting clothes, sturdy shoes and safety glasses. Do not wear anything that could get caught in moving parts (i.e. loose jewelry or clothing), and be careful of long hair.
- Handle gas carefully. Fill up before you start, while the engine is cold. Do not spill when you fill. Store gas in an approved container in a cool, ventilated area. Never smoke around gasoline.
- Clear the area before you start. Pick up rocks, twigs, cans and toys – anything that could be thrown by equipment in operation.
- Operate equipment carefully and follow recommended procedures. Always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before attempting to unclog or work on outdoor power equipment. When leaving equipment unattended, turn off the engine and remove the key.
- Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Never work on equipment while it is running. Never remove or tamper with safety devices and labels. They are provided to protect you and your employees.
- Keep children and pets away from the mowing area. Never allow children to operate any outdoor power equipment. And never carry children, or anyone, as passengers on a riding mower.
Almost all accidents involving outdoor power equipment are entirely preventable, according to OPEI. That is why the organization urges consumers to educate themselves during National Outdoor Power Equipment Safety Month to avoid accidents all year long.
Courtesy of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, a trade association with a membership base including manufacturers of powered lawn and garden maintenance products, components and attachment supplies. For more information about OPEI, visit its web site at opei.mow.org.
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