Spring and summer are prime time for that fresh cut grass smell. But in order to get that smell, you need to mow your lawn. Some people find that time to be rewarding, but for others, it’s usually a teenager’s chore. Not only do you have to beat the summer sun and heat, you also have to be careful of the dangers of using a power lawn mower. Unfortunately there are thousands of hand and foot injuries each year, with even children and pets being accidentally involved.

There are several precautions to take when using a power mower, whether you are 12 or 70 years old. Remember to protect all parts of your body, including your feet when using these machines. The following are some safety tips that we recommend you follow:

Sun safety

• You should only mow the lawn in good weather so that the grass is dry and you have less of a chance of slipping.
• Remember to wear sunblock.

Protective Gear and Tools

• Goggles, ear protectors, and gloves help protect you from flying objects and the loud lawn mowers. Use closed-toed shoes and long pants to protect from flying objects.
• Use a stick to clear debris and stuck lawn cuttings instead of your hands as the rotary blades could have tension that suddenly releases.
• Auto-shut off lawn mowers will reduce accidents from when you have to suddenly let go of the handle, such as if you were to slip.

Prepare the area

• Remove any branches, toys, and other debris before you begin so that nothing gets stuck or flung out from under the mower.
• Make sure children and pets are safely inside and kept far away from the mower. It’s best not to go in reverse, as you never know what’s behind you.

Proper Usage

• Follow all safety instructions of the mowers, especially maintenance instructions. Improperly maintained mowers can cause injuries as well. Let lawn mowers cool before adding more fuel.
• Do not allow children to ride with you on riding mowers as they can get injured if they fall off or as they get off the machine.
• Do your best not to mow up and down, but rather across the lawn on hills.

Do you have a strain or sprain from working in your yard? If it’s not a severe injury (in which case you should go to the emergency department), come see Dr. Jonathan M. Kletz of Texas Foot Works. Make an appointment today at any of our Abrams (Dallas), Athens, and Gun Barrell City, TX offices.