Care Urged in Use

Care Urged in Use

Of Power Mowers

! With spring arrived in Virginia, the song of birds in some lawns will be Interrupted occasionally by the roar of power lawnmowers. The State Department of Health this week urged that care.be taken to cut only grass—nos toes or fingers. w Each year, some accidents occur involving the use of power mowers. The Health Department would like these reduced to the lowest possible minimum. It may be that safer construction of new mowers will play a part in cutting down accidents as well as grass. Increasing numbers of the new models reportedly are being built in accordance with criteria of the American Standards Association. But mechanical improvements alone aren’t a substitute for responsible performance by the operator. These safety rules are suggested for reducing mowing hazards: 1. Know the controls—read the manual carefully. 2. Be sure the lawn is clear of sticks, stones, wire and debris. 3. Never add fuel to a running engine. 4. Keep children and pets at a safe distance. 5. Keep feet well away from the blades when starting and running. 6. Stop the engine whenever you leave the mower and before pushing it across drives, walks or roads. 7. Be careful of footing on slopes or wet grass. Never use a plug-in electric mower in rain or wet grass. Be careful when using a riding mower on slopes. 8. Stop the engine and disconnect the spark wire before checking or working on the mower. Never leave a starter in cocked position.