Doing yard work is a great way to spend more time outdoors and get some extra exercise. At the same time, using a lawn mower may present certain hazards to people and property, which is why you must know how to operate the machine safely. Read on to learn some safety tips before starting your mower up for the spring.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Safe Lawn Mower Use

1. Remove Obstructions

Before starting your lawn mower, walk through your yard to look for obstructions, such as branches, rocks, or children's toys. Remove them to keep from rolling over and damaging them with your mower or dulling the blades.

2. Monitor Children

Mowing the lawn is an excellent way for kids to take on more responsibility. However, make sure you watch them during the process. Children under 12 years of age shouldn’t use push lawn mowers without supervision, and kids under 16 can't legally use riding mowers.

3. Anticipate Flying Debris

Lawnmowers eject grass cuttings into the air, but they may also send twigs, rocks, and other debris flying. Wear goggles to protect your eyes, and move any cars parked along the perimeter of the lot. If pedestrians walk by while you’re mowing, stop and let them pass before continuing.

4. Beware of Hot Surfaces

Lawnmowers burn fuel, causing the metal on the surface to become hot. If you need to add more oil to the tank in the middle of your yard work, allow the machine to cool first. Also, always keep fuel away from outdoor grills and flame sources.

Keep your yard healthy and beautiful with lawn equipment from Bryant's Outdoor Equipment. They provide push, riding, and zero-turn mowers to clients throughout the Wiregrass Area of Alabama, so they’re sure to have what you need this season. Call (334) 794-4419 to ask about their residential lawn mowers in stock or book an appointment for repairs. You can also visit their website to learn more about their inventory of outdoor equipment and power tools.