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• Disengage the drive system, if so equipped, before starting the engi-
ne.
• If the machine should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and
check for the cause immediately. Vibration is generally a warning of
trouble.
• Always wear eye protection when operating machine.
• Lightning can cause severe injury or death. If you see lightning or
hear thunder in the area, do not operate the machine; seek shelter.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation
of accessories. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can
result in severe injury. Operation on all slopes require extra caution. If
you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
• Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise extreme
caution when changing direction on slopes.
• Watch for holes, roots, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven
terrain could cause a slip or fall resulting in severe injury. Tall grass can
hide obstacles.
• Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes. Poor footing
could cause a slip or fall.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. You could lose
your footing or balance.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence
of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing
activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw
them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of
a responsible adult other than the operator.
• Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or
other objects that may block your view of a child.
Service
Safe Handling of Gasoline To avoid personal injury or property damage,
use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely ammable
and the vapors are explosive.