Lawn Mower Safety
As spring arrives and it’s time to mow the lawn for the first time I think it’s important to remind people that lawn mower accidents are all too common with 85,000 people going to the ER every year for lawn mower related accidents, approximately 800 children being run over by lawn mowers every year causing about 600 amputations and 75 people are killed every year (one in five of those are kids). Here are a few tips that can help keep you and your family safe this lawn mowing season:
- Wear proper clothing: While it can be tempting to work on your tan while mowing it’s important to wear clothes that can protect you from any debris that could come flying out. Wear sturdy shoes with good soles and long pants along with ear and eye protection. Lawn mower blades spin at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour and any debris thrown can fly quickly.
- Keep safety guards in place: While it might be tempting to remove any weight restrictions, disable the seat belt on riding lawn mowers or remove guards it is important to keep them in place for your safety. The guards keep debris from flying out and hitting you while the seat belt keeps you from falling off.
- Beware of slopes: Roll overs on riding lawn mowers is the number one killer of people in accidents. Try to mow up and down the slope rather than across it.
- Clear yard of all debris: Clear the yard of all debris such as sticks, toys, rocks, etc before you start to mow. While it might be fun to send Osage orange fruit flying across the yard for the dog to chase it isn’t very safe.
- Disconnect spark plug wire: Always disconnect the spark plug wire before changing the oil or doing any work on a lawn mower. This prevents any accidents from happening with the lawn mower starting accidentally.
Just a few minutes of time and care can prevent numerous accidents this mowing season. Stay safe out there.
Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.
Phone: (316) 321-9660
Email: callae@ksu.edu