More than 87,000 people are injured by power mowers in an average year, including 10,000 children under age 15.
"This year, approximately one in 30 people in the United States will be injured by a lawn mower," said David Oliver, executive director of the Lowe's Home Safety Council. "Because these accidents are so common, it is important that homeowners understand the precautions they must take while operating a lawn mower."
The Lowe's Home Safety Council suggests following these top ten lawn mower safety tips to keep you and your family safe this season:
- Walk over your lawn thoroughly, checking for broken sticks, stones, toys and anything else that could shoot out from under the mower or damage the blade.
- Only use a power mower with a control that stops the mower if the handle is let go.
- Start and refuel mowers outdoors, not in a garage or shed.
- Fill the mower with gas before starting, so you won't be tempted to pour gasoline into a hot mower when you're in the middle of the job.
- Check to make sure that all lawn mower blades are securely in place before you start mowing.
- When checking the blade, always remember to first pull the wire off the sparkplug to avoid accidental starting.
- Never reach under the mower unless it is turned off and the blade has completely stopped turning.
- Wear glasses, long pants and solid shoes to protect yourself from small projectiles that might kick out from under the mower.
- Never leave a running mower unattended.
- Be sure children stay indoors while you are mowing.
Lowe's is the world's second largest home improvement retailer.