Dixon 700 Series - Manual (Page 5)

ACCIDENT PATTERNS TO AVOID
I. CONTACT WITH THE ROTATING
BLADE -- This accident usually
happens when the operator is clearing
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.
II. PROPELLED OBJECTS - Sticks,
rocks, wires, and other objects can be
propelled out through the discharge chute or
from under the mower housing. Bystanders
are particularly vulnerable.
III. GRASS CATCHER OR GUARD - The
mower shall not be operated without either
the entire grass catcher or guard in place.
IV. OVERTURNING - This happens when riding
mowers are used on steep slopes,
embankments or hills. The operator in
these cases can come in contact with the
blades or sustain injuries during a fall.
V. 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.
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
engine owner's 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, back up the slope; drive
forward when descending. 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 an 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.
P-11408 (2/99)