At the National Traffic Safety Institute (NTSI), we care about our students’ safety both on and off the road. In the spirit of promoting safe environments, we are publishing a series of tips to help you stay clear of harm’s way. We hope that you benefit from these timely and informative features.

Lawn Mower Safety Tips

Spring means the start of the chore of yard work. The NTSI recommends the following safety tips when maintaining your lawn.

• Try to use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward if the handle is let go.
• Children younger than 16 years should not be allowed to use ride-on mowers. Children younger than 12 years should not use walk-behind mowers.
• Make sure to wear the correct shoes. Do not wear sandals or sneakers, and do not go barefoot.
• Prevent injuries from flying objects, like stones or toys, by inspecting the lawn and picking up objects.
• Always wear eye and hearing protection.
• Make sure children are away from the area being mowed.
• Start and refuel mowers outdoors, not in a garage or shed. Mowers should be refueled with the motor turned off and cool.
• Make sure the blade settings are changed by an adult, with the mower off and the spark plug removed or disconnected.
• Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and carefully look for children behind the mower before mowing in reverse.
• Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute or crossing gravel paths, roads or other areas.
• Never allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers.

HAVE A SAFE SPRING AND SUMMER!