Slope operation operating the mower safely – DR Power Walk-behind 12.5 Premier User Manual

Page 5

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Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. All slopes require caution. If you feel
uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. Always take the following precautions when using this machine on slopes:
ALWAYS:

Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

Remove objects such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

NEVER:

Never mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. You could lose your footing or balance.

Never mow on slopes greater than 20 degrees or any excessively steep slopes.

Never mow on wet slopes. Reduced traction could result in slipping.

Slope Operation

Operating the Mower Safely

This is a high-powered machine, with moving parts operating with high energy at high speeds. You must operate the machine
safely. Unsafe operation can create a number of hazards for you, as well as anyone else in the nearby area. Always take the
following precautions when using this machine:

Never allow people who are unfamiliar with these instructions to use the mower.

The mower can throw objects far and at great speeds. Keep people and pets at least 100 feet away from your machine at all
times. Install warnings around the area of operation stating “It is prohibited to enter this area”. Disengage the blade and stop
the engine when a person or pet approaches within 100 feet. Do not restart the machine until people and pets are at least 100
feet away from the mower.

Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

Be sure all blade and wheel controls are disengaged before attempting to start the engine. Engage and disengage the blade a
few times to get used to it before mowing.

Keep your hands and feet away from the blade, belts, chains, blade pulleys, and concealed areas while the engine is running.
Never reach under the deck or grab hold of any part of the deck when the engine is running.

Always shut off the engine whenever you leave the machine. Remove the spark plug wire before adjusting the machine. If you
have to stop to remove grass or debris from the underside of the deck, always disconnect the spark plug wire first.

When operating over uneven terrain and slopes, use extreme caution to ensure solid and firm footing. Keep a firm hold on the
handlebars and walk, never run.

Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.

Use extra caution when mowing in wet or slippery conditions.

Always operate the mower from behind. Never pass or stand on the discharge (right) side or in front of machine when the
engine is running.

Do not pull the mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. Look down, and behind before and while moving backwards.

Do not, under any conditions, remove, bend, cut, fit, weld, or otherwise alter standard parts on the mower. This includes all
shields and guards. Modifications to your machine could cause personal injuries and property damage and will void your
warranty.

If the machine starts to make an unusual noise or vibration, immediately shut off the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire,
and allow all moving parts to come to a complete stop. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. Inspect for clogging or
damage. Clean and repair and/or replace damaged parts.

While using the mower, do not hurry or take things for granted. When in doubt about the equipment or your surroundings,
stop the machine and take the time to look things over. Make sure that you have 100% control of the mower at all times.

Do not operate the machine when under the influence of alcohol or medication.

Watch for traffic when mowing near roadways.

Use the machine only in daylight.

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