SAFETY RULES
i_ Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers &
IMPORTANT: 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.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
Only allow responsible adults, who are familia rwith the
instructions, to operate the machine.
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., which could be pickedup and thrown bythe blade.
Be sure the area isclear ofother people before mowing.
Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
Nevercarry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always took down and behind before and while backing.
Be aware ofthe mower discharge direction and do not
point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without
either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.
Slow down before turning.
Never leave a running machine unattended. Always
turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
Turn off blades when not mowing.
Stop engine before removing grass catcheror unclog-
ging chute.
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 operating near or crossing
roadways.
Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-
related injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious injury.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tipoveraccidents, which can result insevere injury or death.
All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the
slope or 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 alow gear so that you wilt not
have to stop or shift while on the slope.
Followthe manufacturer's recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights to improve stability.
Use extra care with grass catchers or other attach-
ments. These can change the stability ofthe machine.
Keep all movement on the slopes slowand 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 NOT:
Do not turnon slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
slowlyand gradually downhill, ifpossible.
Do notmow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
The mower couldsuddenlytum overifawheel isoverthe
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
Do notmow onwet grass. Reduced traction couldcause
sliding.
Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot
onthe ground.
Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.
Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
Be alert and turn machine off ifchildren enter the area.
Before and when backing, look behind and down for
small children.
Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously
injured or interfere with safe machine operation.
Never allow children to operate the machine.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
Use onlyan approved container.
Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do
not smoke.
Never refuel the machine indoors.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there isanopenflame, such as awater heater.
Never run amachine inside a closed area.
Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts,
tight and keep equipment in good condition.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operationregularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. Clean oilorfuel spillage. Allow machine tocool
before storing.
Stop and inspectthe equipment ifyou strike an object.
Repair, ifnecessary, before restarting.
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running.
Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam-
age, and deterioration,whichcouldexpose moving parts
orallowobjectstobe thrown. Frequently check compo-
nents and replace with manufacturer's recommended
parts, when necessary.
Mower blades aresharp and cancut. Wrap theblade(s)
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing
them.
Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service
as required.
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