When
the snow
finally melts and the rain
showers settle, grass begins to grow, which means it’s time to restart your
lawn care routine. For some, this might be a hassle, but for others, this may
be a fun hobby. Whatever it might be for you, the importance of safety remains
the same.
This
list of tips will help keep you safe while you manicure your property:
- Walk your
property before beginning - A quick walk around where you’ll be mowing or weed
whacking can help you find things that may have landed on your property
without you knowing. You wouldn’t want to be on a riding lawn mower near
your road
and accidentally drive over a big rock or stick that has found its way on
to your lawn. A quick walk around your property will help uncover these
items and more -- protecting you, your lawn and machinery.
- Inspect
your tools - Whether you’re using a riding lawn mower, push mower, weed
whacker, or other equipment, you should always look it over prior to use
to avoid injury to yourself and others nearby. Here are a few things
you’ll want to check out:
○ Blade/cord condition
○ Tire air pressure
○ Oil and fuel levels
Not
entirely sure what you’re looking for? Consult the owner’s manual or have it
looked over by a professional.
- Leave it
to a pro
- No matter how handy you might be, there are some things that are better
handled by a professional. If in your prior-to-use inspection you notice
that something might be broken or not in working order, start by
consulting your owner’s manual. If a simple fix isn’t outlined in the
manual, consult a professional to resolve any issues. Additionally, you’ll
want to have your mowers routinely maintained by a professional even for
just a quick tune up before the start of lawn care season.
- Dress appropriately - Ear and eye
protection might seem ridiculous but they are two protective items that
can make a huge impact, protecting your eyes from objects that may shoot
up from the mower and your ears from the loud, continued noise emitted
from the machinery. Additionally, it is important to cover exposed skin, especially
while weed whacking when your feet will be close to the machinery. Wear
footwear that covers your feet completely (tied tight) and don’t forget to
wear a hat and sunscreen to protect
yourself from the sun.
- Turn it
off – Stepping away to move an object or grab a quick
beverage?
Never leave your equipment running when unattended. Turn it off before stepping
away.
- Be responsible and respectful - If your property falls on both sides of a road, be especially cautious when near the road or crossing it. Additionally, you might want to add a SMV (Slow Moving Vehicle) sticker to your riding mower to help alert vehicles on the road. It’s also important to remember that while lawn care tools are helpful, they are also dangerous. Be aware of your surroundings and never allow children to use, ride or be near these tools when in use.
Safety
is key in avoiding unnecessary incidents. Use these tips to keep you and your
family safe this lawn-care season!
