Husqvarna O0803001 - Manual (Page 3)

4
SAFETY RULES
DANGER !
THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OB-
JECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERI-
OUS INJURY OR DEATH.
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand and follow all instructions
in the manual and on the machine before
starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar
with the instructions, to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
stones, toys, wire etc., which could be picked
up and thrown by the blades.
• Be sure the area is clear of all people and
pets before mowing. Stop the machine if
anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers or children even with
blades off.
• 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 direct it towards anyone. Do not
operate the mower without either the entire
grass catcher or the guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave the machine unattended when
the engine is running. Always turn off the
blades, set the parking brake, stop the engine
and remove the key before leaving the
machine.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or
unclogging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artifi cial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
infl uence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch out for traffi c when operating near or
crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading and unloading
the machine onto a trailer or truck.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of
riding mower-related injuries. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate the riding
mower safely enough to protect themselves and
others from serious injury.
• DO NOT operate mower with grass catcher,
unless the front weights are installed.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other
debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust/
engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower
deck to plow leaves or other debris which
can cause buildup to occur. Clean any oil or
fuel spillage before operating or storing the
machine. Allow machine to cool before storage.
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 cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy
on it, do not mow it.
DO
• Mow up and down slopes (10° Max.), not
across.
• 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 speed so that
you will not have to stop while on the slope.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability of
the machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in
speed or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires
lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.