Lawn mowers are invaluable tools for maintaining a well-groomed yard, but they require respect and responsible use. A sunny afternoon in the yard can quickly turn into a trip to the ER when a lawn mower is misused. Did you know that lawn mower accidents result in thousands of injuries every year in the U.S.? These include lacerations (47%), fractures (22%), and even amputations (21%). Hands, wrists, and feet are the most frequently affected areas. Aside from the physical toll, these injuries often lead to emotional challenges and financial strain, with hospital stays averaging over $36,000 per incident.
conspiracies, extraterrestrial life, and the paranormal. To prevent lawn mower injuries to children, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends several key safety tips. By following these safety guidelines, you can protect your family, prevent unnecessary injuries, and even avoid life-altering complications like amputations.
- 1 Preparing for Safe Lawn Mowing
- 2 Operating Your Lawn Mower Safely
- 3 Safety Features and Equipment
- 4 Post-Mowing Safety and Storage
- 5 Handling Lawn Mower Injuries
- 6 Comparison of Lawn Mower Types and Safety Features
- 7 Best Product Recommendations
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 9 Additional Resources
Preparing for Safe Lawn Mowing
Read the Operator’s Manual
Read all operating instructions and safety tips. Even if you’ve owned your mower for several years, it’s helpful to review its features annually. Find the model number on your machine and search for the instructions online. Spend a few minutes reading the manual. Know how to use the machine safely.
Inspect and Maintain Your Mower
- Keep your mower in good working order by having it serviced before each new mowing season.
- Check all lawnmower parts. Clean the lawnmower and ensure all components work properly while the mower is off.
- Regularly check your mower blade for sharpness and damage, and have it sharpened or replaced as needed.
- After each use, clean grass clippings and other debris from the mower. Built-up clippings can interfere with the mower’s operation and pose a fire hazard.
- Use a checklist to inspect the lawnmower before each use. Look for any missing or damaged guards, loose belts, out-of-balance blades, or fluid leaks.
Clear the Yard
Before mowing your lawn, clear away all debris. Rocks and sticks can get caught in mower blades and cause eye injuries or cuts. Inspect the area to be mowed for stones, tree branches, nails, and wires – these objects can be picked up by the mower and expelled at bullet-like speeds, causing serious injury.
Dress Appropriately
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with sure-grip soles and long pants to minimize injury.
- Use protective eyewear and hearing protection while mowing.
- Wear goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from flying yard debris and sun.
- Wear protective gloves to ensure a firm grip and added protection.
Operating Your Lawn Mower Safely
General Safety Practices
- Always push the mower forward, never pull it backward toward you. If you slip, you could end up pulling the mower right on top of you.
- Do not drink alcohol or use other substances before or while using your lawn mower.
- Avoid distractions. Do not talk on your cell phone, text, or listen to music while mowing.
- Keep both hands and feet on the equipment at all times (if applicable).
- Never reach around or beneath a running mower or trimmer.
Handling Slopes and Uneven Terrain
- Mow across slopes with a push mower to avoid pulling the mower over your feet if you slip.
- Mow up and down slopes with a riding mower to prevent the mower from tipping over.
- Avoid mowing on slopes that exceed the angle limits specified by the manufacturer.
- Do not cut wet grass, as it can cause slipping and clog the mower.
- Decrease your mower’s speed when turning corners or mowing downhill to avoid a rollover.
Protecting Children and Bystanders
- Keep young children and pets inside while mowing.
- Do not let young children sit on your lap while using a riding mower.
- Children should be at least 12 years old before they operate any lawn mower, and at least 16 years old for a riding mower.
- Teach children to stay away from all lawn mowers, even those that are not currently in use.
- Never allow a child, or any other passenger, to ride on a mower, even with parents.
Fueling and Maintenance During Operation
- Add fuel before starting the engine, not when it is running or hot.
- Fill your gasoline tank only when the engine is cold.
- Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, inspecting, or repairing lawn mower equipment.
- Never insert hands or feet into the mower to remove grass or debris. Use a stick or broom handle instead.
- Always remove the lawn mower spark plug when working on the blade to prevent accidental starting.
Safety Features and Equipment
Built-In Safety Features
Modern lawn mowers are equipped with certain safety devices which should not be removed or tampered with. One safety feature is a blade that stops turning when the operator’s hands are removed from the controls. Another is a rear-mounted rope pull for starting the mower. Many rotary lawn mowers have bagging attachments which affect mower safety. The manufacturer may have a special attachment which is required for safe mowing without a bag. Similarly, discharge chute shields on non-bagging lawn mowers should not be removed.
Rollover Protection Systems (ROPS)
Some riding mowers are designed by their manufacturer to be equipped with a roll-over protective structure (ROPS). If the mower a worker will be using does not have a ROPS, look for unused bolt holes or brackets near the seat or frame to see if the mower should be equipped with a ROPS. Do not operate any mower that was intended to be equipped with a ROPS without its ROPS in place. Mowers with a ROPS should also be equipped with a seat belt.
Operator Presence Control (OPC)
An OPC system is a safety device that stops the rotary blade when the lawnmower operator rises out of the seat to perform a task or is thrown from the lawnmower. This feature reduces the chances of lacerations, amputations, and death.
Post-Mowing Safety and Storage
- Keep the mower in a dry place away from children and pets.
- Don’t allow children to sit on or play near mowers when not in use.
- Never leave a running lawnmower unattended. Shut off the engine if you must walk away, and take the keys with you.
- Never lift a mower by the bottom for transport; the blades can cut fingers even if they are not moving.
Handling Lawn Mower Injuries
If you suffer a lawn mower injury, seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly small injuries. Small wounds or cuts can harbor unsafe bacteria. Clean the wounds well with soap and water. Cover them with a bandage. Infections are common, and antibiotic medicines may be necessary. More severe injuries can lead to multiple finger amputations. Save any amputated body part in a sealed plastic bag wrapped in moist gauze or cloth and place that bag in another bag of ice. Go immediately to the closest emergency room.
Comparison of Lawn Mower Types and Safety Features
| Mower Type | Key Safety Features | Recommended Age for Operation | Common Hazards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Push Mower | Operator Presence Control, Discharge Chute Shields | 12+ | Cuts, Projectile Injuries |
| Riding Mower | ROPS, Seat Belt, OPC | 16+ | Rollover, Amputations |
| Electric Mower | Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, Blade Stop Mechanism | 12+ | Electrical Shock, Cuts |
Best Product Recommendations
To ensure safe and efficient lawn mowing, consider investing in high-quality mowers with robust safety features. Here are two top recommendations available on Amazon:
- Craftsman M105 Gas-Powered Push Lawn Mower: Features a reliable engine, adjustable cutting height, and a durable blade guard for enhanced safety.
- Greenworks 40V Cordless Lawn Mower: Equipped with a safety key, push-button start, and battery-powered operation to reduce fuel-related risks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the safest type of lawn mower to use?
Electric or battery-powered mowers are often considered safer than gas-powered ones due to the absence of fuel-related risks and lower noise levels. However, safety depends on proper use, maintenance, and adherence to safety guidelines regardless of the mower type.
Can children help with lawn mowing?
Children under 12 should not operate push mowers, and those under 16 should not use riding mowers. Always supervise teens and ensure they understand the mower’s operation and safety rules before allowing them to mow independently.
How often should I maintain my lawn mower?
Perform a full maintenance check before each mowing season and inspect the mower before each use. Regularly clean debris, sharpen blades, and check for loose or damaged parts to ensure safe operation.
What should I do if my mower blade gets jammed?
Turn off the mower, disconnect the spark plug (or unplug electric models), and use a stick or broom handle to clear the obstruction. Never use your hands or feet, as stored energy in the mower could cause the blade to move suddenly.
Are safety features like ROPS necessary for home use?
For riding mowers, ROPS and seat belts are highly recommended, especially if you mow on slopes or uneven terrain. These features can prevent serious injuries or fatalities in the event of a rollover.
Additional Resources
For more information on lawn mower safety, explore these authoritative resources:
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
- American Academy of Pediatrics
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration
By prioritizing safety, maintaining your equipment, and educating your family, you can enjoy a beautifully manicured lawn without compromising on safety. Stay vigilant, follow these guidelines, and make lawn mowing a safe and rewarding chore.