SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Tow Behind Mowers
WARNING: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to
observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
LGENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
Read this operator's manual carefully. Become
familiar with the controls and know how to operate
your mower properly.
• Only allow responsible adults who are familiar with
the instructions to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the
blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before
mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before
and during backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do
not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower
without the guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
turn off blades and stop engine.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when crossing or operating near
roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
• Do not attempt to operate your tractor or mower
when not in drivers seat.
• Disengage power to mower and stop engine when
transporting or when not in use.
• Exercise special care when mowing around fixed
objects in order to prevent the blades from striking
them. Never deliberately run tractor or mower onto
or over any foreign object.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and
as described in this manual.
• Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or
damaged in any manner. Always have damage
repaired before using your mower.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when
starting and while using your mower.
• Dress properly. Do not operate mower when
barefoot or wearing open sandals. Wear only solid
shoes with good traction when mowing.
• Always make cutting height adjustments before
starting your mower. Never attempt to do this while
the engine is running.
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the
area being cut. Do not let other interests distract
you.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all
times.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your
mower, stop the engine and make absolutely sure
the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Then
disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away
from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is and indication of
damage; stop the engine, safely check for the
cause of vibration and repair as required.
• Never operate your mower without proper guards,
plates or other safety devices in place.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or
death. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel
uneasy on it, do not mow it.
DO:
•Mow up and down slopes, not across.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain
could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
•Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will
not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
•Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for
wheel weights or counterweights to improve
stability.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual.
Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly
straight down the slope.
DO NO_
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then
turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The mower could suddenly turn
over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or
if an edge caves in.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could
cause sliding.
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