Welcome to the Jamesville Fire Department
Lawnmower Safety
For many of us, spring means the beginning of lawn upkeep. Whether you are readying your own yard for summer or performing yard work on the job, please keep in mind that you must take some precautions! Every year, approximately 75,000 people suffer injuries serious enough to land them in the emergency room due to a lawnmower, and most of these injuries are the direct result of improper use. When using a lawnmower, remember to:
- Wear closed-toed shoes with non-slip soles and avoid wearing any draped or loose clothing. Also, wear long pants to help protect your legs from objects which may be thrown from underneath the lawnmower.
- Read the owner's manual before use and familiarize yourself with safety instructions.
- Rake before mowing to avoid getting stones or debris caught in the blades.
- Turn off the lawnmower before you leave it. Unattended, running lawnmowers can be very attractive to children!
- Take the mower outside before starting it. Never start a lawnmower indoors or in areas where carbon monoxide can build up, such as a garage.
- Turn off the lawnmower before attempting to unclog it.
- Ensure the engine is turned off and is cool before refueling. Never risk getting gasoline on a hot engine!
- Disconnect the spark plug wire any time you need to reach under the mower!
- Avoid using an electric mower to mow wet grass.
- Also, remember to never allow passengers, especially children, on a riding lawnmower, and always keep young children out of the area where you plan to mow.
Lawnmower accidents are entirely preventable. Safe and informed use will keep you out of harm's way!