Mowing is an essential part of lawn care, and many people falsely believe that it is as easy as pushing around a piece of equipment. While a quality lawn mower will do the majority of the work, it is important to remember that it is up to you to make sure that you stay safe. Following these safety tips will ensure that you have a safe lawn care season every year.
1- Protect Your Feet
Sandals are the ultimate choice for summer footwear, but they aren’t great for safety. You’ll want to wear a pair of closed-toe shoes to protect your feet from flying debris or major injuries if they somehow get run over by the mower. If you’ve got a large lawn, then wear a comfortable set of socks to protect against blisters.
2- Use Sun Protection
Mowing an average-sized lawn takes at least 30 minutes, and you could spend hours trimming the grass if you’ve got a large plot of land. Sunscreen will protect your skin during this time, and you may even want to add a wide-brimmed hat. Avoiding a sunburn means that you’ll be ready to mow when it is time again.
3- Keep Your Mower Maintained
Lawn mowers should be inspected at the beginning of each season. You’ll also want to check for signs of wear and tear as you rack up the mileage. Ignoring lawn mower issues can lead to issues such as the motor not shutting off appropriately. Always repair lawn mower issues right away by using new parts. Or, you may need to choose a new mower if yours is beyond repair.
4- Do a Pre-Mow Lawn Inspection
Lawn mower blades can throw rocks and other debris in your direction. You could also run over rope and other objects that could get hung up on the blades. Walk the lawn to check for any objects that you need to remove before you start mowing.
5- Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is critical when you are spending large amounts of time outside. Make sure to bring some water along, and plan to take regular breaks so that you can take a few sips. You’ll also want to avoid mowing if you’ve recently had alcohol. It is dehydrating and could cause you to make dangerous mistakes as you mow.
6- Wait for Storms to Pass
The weather might turn cooler right before a storm, which may tempt you to go out and mow. However, lighting often arrives around this time, and you don’t want to risk being struck. Listen for thunder before you mow, and check the weather map for lightning nearby. If necessary, just wait it out or choose to mow another day.
7- Stay Safe While Clearing Clogs
You can avoid major clogs by waiting until the grass is dry to mow. If you do discover a clog, never assume that the blades won’t turn just because you’ve switched the mower off. Instead, use a broomstick or other long piece of wood to remove the clog rather than your hand.
8- Watch Out for Children and Pets
Parents often wait for the day when their kid can finally mow, but you’ll want to make sure that your child is at least 12 before they use a push mower and 16 before they ride on top of a riding model. Pets and young children should also be kept away from where you are mowing to prevent a collision or them from being hit by flying debris.
Looking out at your home’s freshly cut grass is so satisfying, and staying safe helps you get the most enjoyment out of all of your hard work. As you get used to using your mower, remember that safety is always the highest priority. Learn how to take care of your lawn mower, and keep an eye out for any signs of damage. With proper care, your mower should last for many seasons and provide you with a fresh, clean-cut on each blade of grass that keeps your lawn trimmed and lush.