April 5 2011
As we spend much of our time outdoors enjoying our backyards it is important to remember the following safety tips put out by the Home Safety Council:
*Store pesticides and herbicides on high shelves or inside locked cabinets, out of the reach of children.
*Chain saws: make certain it is equipped with an anti-kickback chain that is well sharpened.
*Garden tools: such as rakes, spades, forks, pruning clippers, files and metal plant stakes should not be left lying around when not in use.
*Mowing Safety:
- Prepare your lawn by walking over it, checking for broken sticks, stones, toys and anything else that could shoot out from under the mower - objects such as a rock or wire can be thrown 100-200 feet or further.
- Before you start your lawn mower for the first time, check to make sure that all guards are in place.
- Don't let people stand or sit anywhere near where you are mowing.
- Keep small children away while the grass is being cut.
- Never reach under the mower unless it is turned off and the blade has stopped turning.
- Only refuel the mower after it has completely cooled down.
- Wear protective, close-fitting clothing and sturdy boots or shoes. Never wear open toe shoes or sandals.
- Always wear safety glasses or goggles.
- Never mow wet grass, especially when mowing slopes or berms.