The leaves are back, warmth is in the air, and the endless possibilities of spring are ready to be sprung. At the top of the to-do list this season is having a nicely mowed lawn to enjoy in your down time and show off to neighbors and guests.
Unfortunately, spring and summer are also when hospitals see an increase in individuals injured by a lawn mower. Lawn mower injuries can include cuts, burns, amputation, and broken bones. These injuries usually occur when the user doesn’t read the safety warnings or uses the machine recklessly. Prevention has always been better than a cure, so here are some mowing safety essentials for you to use:
Wear the proper gear: It is important to keep basic safety in mind when operating any dangerous machine. Wear closed-toed shoes and proper safety equipment, including hearing and eye protection. Goggles and pants help prevent debris from flying into your eyes and legs. Gloves provide proper grip, while ear plugs and long pants help keep the noise at a reasonable decibel.
Conduct regular maintenance: Never try to clean underneath the mower deck or place any part of your body near the mower blades while the machine is running. The best advice is to turn the machine off and to disconnect the spark plug before placing your hands anywhere near the mower blades.
Beware slanted terrain: Riding lawn mowers have a high center of gravity and are prone to tipping over. If you are going to be mowing on a hill, it is best to mow straight up and down the hill and never to mow across the hill. If you are ever uncomfortable, then do not operate a riding lawn mower on a steep hill.
Pick up the debris: Rocks, sticks, and pebbles don’t seem dangerous until they are thrown from your lawn mower at someone’s face or through your window. Picking up loose debris before mowing is the best way to keep you and your family safe.
Watch out for children: Lawn mowers should not be operated by children or near where children are playing. A riding lawn mower should not be operated by anyone under the age of 16. Ensuring children are inside the house while you mow will keep them safe and keep your mind at ease while you work.
Don’t pull the lawn mower backward: If you slipped while pulling the lawn mower backward, you would pull the lawn mower on top of you. Always push the lawn mower forward so that the potential danger is in front of you rather than coming at you.
If you experience a lawn mower injury, seek medical attention immediately at your nearest emergency department.
Joseph Martz, DO, is a board-certified family medicine provider at MercyOne Clinton North Health Plaza. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 563-243-2511 or visit MercyOne.org.