Swisher RT10544 - Manual (Page 3)

SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Trailmowers
IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET, AND
THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It
means CAUTION!!! BECOME
ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED!!!
CAUTION:
ALWAYS DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG
WIRE AND PLACE IT WHERE IT CANNOT
CONTACT SPARK PLUG IN ORDER TO
PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING WHEN
SETTING UP, TRANSPORTING, ADJUSTING
OR MAKING REPAIRS.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
• Read this operator's manual carefully. Become familiar
with the controls and know how to operate your mower
properly.
• Only allow responsible adults who are familiar with the
instructions to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind before and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not
point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without the
guards in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn
off blades, and stop engine.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
• Disengage power to mower and stop engine when
transporting or not in use.
••
Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when
starting and while using your mower.
• Exercise special care when mowing around fixed objects
in order to prevent the blades from striking them. Never
deliberately run tow vehicle or mower onto or over any
foreign object.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and as
described in the manual.
• Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged
in any manner. Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
• Dress properly. Do not operate mower when barefoot or
wearing open sandals. Wear only solid shoes with good
traction when mowing.
• Always make cutting height adjustments before starting
your mower. Never attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area
being cut.
• Do not let other interests distract you.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower,
stop the engine and make absolutely sure the blade and all
moving parts have stopped. Then disconnect the spark
plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent
accidental starting.
• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally.
Excessive vibration is an indication of damage; stop the
engine, safely check for the cause of vibration and repair
as required.
• Never operate your mower without proper guards, plates,
or other safety devices in place.
• Do not attempt to operate the tow vehicle when not in
drivers seat.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip over
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All
slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on it, do not
mow it.
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps; uneven terrain could
overturn the machine; tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not
have to stop or shift while on the slope.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do
not make sudden changes in speed or direction.