The Brooksville Journal

SUGGESTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING OF YOUR LAWN MOWER
"Almost any afternoon and every week-end the whirl of the power mower can be heard in the suburbs and on country lawns and in the city, too," points out County Agent Harry Brinkley.

Mowers - especially the kind with a whirling, propeller-like blade can be dangerous if improperly used, according to Extension Safety leader A. M. Pettis. But follow a few simple do's and don'ts and your mower can be a safe and faithful servant.

Here are some suggestions for safe lawn mower use:

Start the mower on level ground, making sure your feet are away from the cutter bar or blade. To keep the machine firmly on the ground when starting it, place one foot on the deck and hold the handle with one hand.

Don't leave a mower running unattended where it might be a temptation to children and others who don't know how to handle it.

Go over the lawn before mowing to remove rocks, sticks, wire, and other foreign material. The County Agent points out that a mower can throw such things with killing force.

Be sure children and pets stay away from the machine when you're mowing. Keep a steady footing and balance when mowing on inclines.

Never make adjustments, remove clogging grass or sticks, or reach in front of the mower while the engine is running. Always disconnect the spark plug wire when making adjustments. Keep hands, feet and loose clothing away from moving blades, reels, motor belts, and exposed chain.

When storing the mower, remove the spark plug or spark plug wire to prevent inquisitive youngsters from starting the machine.