Ways To Prevent Lawnmower Injuries

Part One

According to The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) the following are recommended ways to prevent lawnmower injuries:

Make sure that children are indoors or at a safe distance well away from the area that you plan to mow.
Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary and carefully look for children behind you when you mow in reverse.
Do not allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers.
Children under age 12 should not use walk-behind mowers.
Children under age 16 should not be allowed to use ride-on mowers.
Have anyone who uses a mower wear hearing and eye protection.

Inspect the lawn before mowing and pick up hidden objects in the grass.
Make sure that sturdy shoes (not sandals or sneakers) are worn while mowing.
Try to use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward if the handle is let go.
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.
Make sure that blade settings are done by an adult, with the mower off and the spark plug removed or disconnected.
Start and refuel mowers outdoors, not in a garage or shed. Mowers should be refueled with the motor turned off and cool.
Use a collection bag for grass clippings or a plate that covers the opening where cut grass is released.