Operating Safely

• Never run an engine in an enclosed area where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
• Only operate in good light, keeping away from holes and hidden hazards.
• Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is engaged before starting engine. Only start engine from the operator’s position.
• Be sure of your footing while using pedestrian-controlled equipment, especially when backing up. Walk, don’t run. Never operate on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.
• Slow down and use extra care on hillsides. Be sure to travel in the recommended direction on hillsides. For this machine, mow across hillsides, not up and down. Turf conditions can affect the machine’s stability. Use caution while operating near drop-offs.
• Slow down and use caution when making turns and when changing directions on slopes. Stop blades if not mowing.
• Stop the blades if the mower has to be tilted for transportation when crossing surfaces other than grass, and when transporting the mower to and from the area to be mowed.
• Never operate with guards not securely in place. Be sure all interlocks are attached, adjusted properly, and functioning properly.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating an engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
• Stop on level ground, disengage drives, engage parking brake, and shut off engine before leaving the operator’s position for any reason including emptying the grasscatchers or clearing blockages.
• Stop equipment and inspect reels after striking objects or if an abnormal vibration occurs. Make necessary repairs before resuming operations.
• Keep hands and feet away from the cutting units.
• Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of a clear path.
• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Use care when loading or unloading the machine into or off of a trailer or truck.
• Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
• Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts. Be sure guards and shields are in good condition and fastened in place. Make any necessary adjustments before you operate.
• Never pick up or carry a mower while the engine is running.
• Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Use only accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer of the machine.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe service and operation requires your full attention.