Bush Hog ZERO TURN MOWERS - Manual (Page 6)

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
This symbol is used to call attention to safe-
ty precautions that should be followed by
the operator to avoid accidents. When you
see this symbol, carefully read the message
that follows and heed its advice. Failure to
comply with safety precautions could result
in serious bodily injury.
In addition to the design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are depen-
dent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training of personnel in the operation, transport,
maintenance and storage of equipment. Lack of attention to safety can result in accident, personal injury,
reduction of efficiency and worst of all—loss of life. Watch for safety hazards and correct deficiencies prompt-
ly. Use the following safety precautions as a general guide to safe operations when using this machine.
Additional safety precautions are used throughout this manual for specific operating and maintenance proce-
dures. Read this manual and review the safety precautions often until you know the limitations.
ACCIDENT PATTERNS TO AVOID
1. CONTACT WITH THE ROTATING BLADE - This accident usually happens when the operator is clear
ing the discharge chute of grass, (especially when the grass is wet), or when the operator adjusts the
machine without turning it off and waiting for the blades to completely stop.
2. PROPELLED OBJECTS - Sticks, rocks, wires, and other objects can be propelled out through the dis-
charge chute or from under the mower housing. Bystanders are particularly vulnerable.
3. GRASS CATCHER OR GUARD - The mower shall not be operated without either the entire grass catch-
er or guard in place.
4. OVERTURNING - This happens when riding mowers are used on steep slopes, embankments or hills.
The operator in these cases can come in contact with blades or sustain injuries during a fall.
5. MOWER RUNNING OVER THE VICTIM - This usually happens when a riding mower is driven in reverse.
The accident victims are most often young children whom, unseen by the operator of the mower, were in
the area being mowed.
WE SHARE YOUR DESIRE TO PROTECT YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY, YOUR FRIEND AND YOUR
NEIGHBORS FROM ACCIDENTAL INJURY. OBSERVING AND ENFORCING THE FOLLOWING GUIDE
LINES WILL HELP TO INSURE THE SAFETY OF EVERYONE.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
1. PEOPLE WHO OPERATE, SERVICE, OR ARE OTHERWISE ASSOCIATED with the Zero Turning
Radius Mower should be trained in its proper use and warned of its dangers. Before operating, adjusting,
or servicing the Zero Turning Radius Mower they should read and understand this entire manual and the
owner’s engine manual.
2. AVOID CONTACT WITH MOVING PARTS. Keep hands and feet from under mowing deck and away
from blades at all times. Turn engine (motor) off if you must unclog the chute.
3. AVOID HILLS AND SLOPES. Use extreme caution when mowing up or down slopes. NEVER mow
across the face of a slope. If a slope must be ascended, drive up the slope; back down when descend-
ing. Reduce speed and use caution to start, stop and maneuver. To prevent loss of control on a slope,
avoid sharp turns, sudden changes in direction, and sudden stops and starts.
4. DISENGAGE POWER TO MOWER BEFORE BACKING UP. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary and then only after turning around and observing the entire area behind the mower. Go slowly.
Most “running over victim” accidents occur in reverse.
5. BEGINNING OPERATORS SHOULD LEARN HOW TO STEER the Zero Turning Radius Mower before
attempting to mow. Start with slow engine speed and drive without the blades engaged in open area until
comfortable with the machine.
6. KNOW HOW TO STOP QUICKLY. Know the location and operation of every control, especially how to brake and
how to disengage the mower blades.
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