It is very important to take precautions and follow safety procedures when using a ride on lawn mower. A surprisingly large number of accidents and injuries occur each year as a result of using these machines, the vast majority of which could be prevented with the simple combination of forethought and common sense. The number of accidents that are actually caused by the use of ride on lawn mowers will vary depending on who you choose to listen to, all estimates are however in the tens of thousands for most large countries.
Types of Accidents
Although many incidents will involve the operator of the lawnmower, such as when a machine tips over, a large number will result in the injury of an innocent third party. A common scenario is one where a careless driver hits another person with the mower. Unfortunately, children are more likely to be victims in these cases than adults will be. This is due to their tendency to run around outdoors and their general lack of awareness as to what is going on around them. As you can imagine, a ride on lawn mower will be capable of doing serious damage to a child.
Many users of these mowers do not seriously consider the risks associated with the people around them being hit by flying objects, which can be flicked up from the ground by mower blades. Rocks and stones are often involved in these kinds of incidents and can cause very serious injuries to people who are unlucky enough to be in their flight path.
Ways to Stay Safe
Firstly, the i
nstruction manual that will no doubt be provided with all ride on mowers will have some important information relating to safety. Most people look at these documents purely as a how-to guide and will often ignore the sections on safe usage. Although they may not be an invigorating read, these manuals will usually provide very good safety information and step by step procedures you can follow. Safety and correct usage may vary if you have an electric ride on lawn mower, so make sure you consider this if you are using to using a gas powered machine.
When you are looking at the different ride on lawn mowers for sale, check the safety features that each model has. Many will cut power to the motor when you dismount, making it impossible to leave a mower running while it is not in use.
Some of the worst ride on mower accidents will involve children. Firstly, you must ensure that children understand that mowers are not toys. This can be difficult as they may have outdoor toy trucks that look similar. To reinforce this principle in the mind of a child, try not to let them ride with you when mowing. Ideally children will be completely clear of the area where you are using a mower. This eliminates the possibility of any injuries. They will also be much less interested in a mower if they cannot watch you using it, making sure children are entertained elsewhere will be the best policy every time. In fact, the fewer people that are around when you are using the mower, the better off you will be.
Care for Yourself and Your Mower
You should look after your own welfare when using a ride on lawn mower. Make sure you are confident using the machine without the risk of losing control or tipping over. Comfort is also important. Do not use a mower when you are ill or tired, and make sure you are dressed appropriately and well hydrated, therefore minimizing the risk of becoming too hot in the sun.
As well as looking after your self, look after the mower too. Maintain it regularly and familiarise yourself with ride on lawn mower parts so you are able to purchase replacements when needed. The manual you have hopefully already looked through may also contain useful information about ride lawn on mower spares.