Safe Operating Practices - Exmark Metro 21 Operator's Manual

DANGER signals an extreme hazard that will cause
serious injury or death if the recommended
precautions are not followed.
WARNING signals a hazard that may cause serious
injury or death if the recommended precautions are
not followed.
CAUTION signals a hazard that may cause minor or
moderate injury if the recommended precautions are
not followed.
Two other words are also used to highlight
information. "Important" calls attention to special
mechanical information and "Note" emphasizes
general information worthy of special attention.
The left and right side of the machine is determined
by standing behind the handle in the normal
operator's position.
This machine meets or exceeds CPSC blade safety
requirements for walk-behind rotary mowers and
the B71.4–1990 specifications of the American
National Standards Institute, in effect at time of
production. However, improper use or
maintenance by the operator or owner can result
in injury. To reduce the potential for injury,
comply with these safety instructions and always
pay attention to the safety alert
means CAUTION, WARNING or
DANGER—"personal safety instruction." Failure
to comply with the instruction may result in
personal injury.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide,
which is an odorless, deadly poison.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
Carbon monoxide can kill you and is also
known to the State of California to cause birth
defects.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
Do not run engine indoors or in an enclosed
area.

Safe Operating Practices

This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to
avoid serious injury or death.
This mower is designed for cutting and recycling grass or,
when equipped with a grass bag, for catching cut grass.
Any use for purposes other than these could prove
dangerous to the operator or bystanders.
Note: This engine is not equipped with a spark arrester
muffler. It is a violation of California Public Resource
Code Section 4442 (or 4443) to use or operate this engine
on any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered
land. Other states or federal areas may have similar laws.
General Operation
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Read this manual carefully before operating the
mower. Become familiar with the controls and proper
use of the mower. Never allow children under 16 years
of age to operate the mower. Never allow adults to
operate mower without proper instructions.
The operator of the mower is responsible for keeping
everyone, especially children and pets, away from area
of operation. The operator is responsible for accidents
or hazards occurring to other people or their property.
Thoroughly inspect the area where the mower will be
used and remove sticks, stones, wire, and debris that
could be picked up and thrown by the mower. Watch
for foreign objects while mowing.
Wear long pants and substantial shoes. Do not operate
the mower while wearing open-toed shoes, jewelry,
loose clothing, or when barefoot.
Check the fuel level before starting the engine.
Because fuel is highly flammable, handle it carefully.
Use an approved fuel container.
Fill the fuel tank outdoors, not indoors. Never add
fuel to an engine that is running or hot.
Install a gas cap on the fuel container and gas tank,
and wipe up any spilled gasoline before starting the
engine.
Do not smoke while refueling.
Keep all guards, shields, safety devices,
cover-deflector assembly, optional grass catcher,
optional side discharge chute, and/or optional
discharge tunnel plug in place. Repair or replace
damaged parts, including decals. Check all safety
devices before each use.