Lawn Mowing Safety Tips: How to Stay Safe While Maintaining Your Yard
Maintaining a well-manicured lawn requires regular mowing, but it’s important to prioritize safety when using a lawn mower. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, lawnmowers are responsible for thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. To ensure that you’re keeping your lawn looking great without putting yourself or others in danger, here are some essential lawn care mowing safety tips to keep in mind.
Wear the Right Protective Gear
Before you even turn on your lawn mower, make sure you’ve dressed appropriately. This means wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction, eye protection, and hearing protection. It’s also a good idea to wear long pants to protect your legs from debris that may be thrown up by the mower.
Clear the Area of Debris
Before you begin mowing, take a few minutes to walk around your lawn and clear away any rocks, sticks, toys, or other debris that could be picked up by the blades and thrown out at high speeds. This can help prevent injuries to you or anyone else in the area.
Be Mindful of Slopes and Hills
Mowing on slopes or hills can be dangerous, especially if you’re using a riding lawn mower. Always mow up and down a slope, rather than across it, and be sure to avoid any steep inclines that could cause the mower to tip over.
Turn Off the Engine Before Making Adjustments
If you need to adjust the height of the mower blade or clear away any debris that’s become stuck, always turn off the engine and wait for the blades to come to a complete stop before doing so. This can help prevent serious injuries to your hands or feet.
Don’t Allow Children or Pets in the Area
Never allow children or pets to play in the area while you’re mowing the lawn. They should be kept indoors or in a separate area of the yard until you’re finished mowing.
Don’t Mow When Your Drunk
Finally, it’s important to never operate a lawn mower while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This can impair your judgment and reaction time, putting you and others at risk.
By following these essential lawn mowing safety tips, you can enjoy a beautifully maintained lawn while keeping yourself and others safe from harm.
Need lawn care services in Gig Harbor, WA? Reach out DG Gig Harbor Landscaping for the job. Give our landscapers a call at (253) 215-1113!