Snapper 7800979-00 Operator's Manual page 5

4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with mature
judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.
5. DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely
necessary. LOOK and SEE behind and down for children,
pets and hazards before and while backing.
6. USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
Slope Operation
1. Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents,
which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, DO NOT mow it.
2. Mow across slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise extreme
CAUTION when changing directions on slopes. DO NOT
mow steep slopes or other areas where stability or traction
is in doubt. Refer to the Slope Guide at the back of this
manual.
3. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments;
these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.
Preparation
1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in
this manual and on the mower, engine and attachments.
Know the controls and the proper use of the mower before
starting.
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the machine
and only after proper instruction.
3. Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are
involved in a large percentage of mower-related injuries.
These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the
mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from
serious injury.
4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors
are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. DO
NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add
fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean
spilled fuel and oil from machine. DO NOT smoke.
5. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such
as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause
injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. Also note
the location of holes, stumps, and other possible hazards.
6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area. Immediately,
STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop mower if anyone enters
the area.
7. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and
other safety devices frequently for proper operation and
location.
8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if
damaged.
9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses,
long pants and substantial footwear. DO NOT mow
barefooted or with sandals.
10. Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in preparation
for emergencies.
11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into
a trailer or truck.
12. Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of
wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent
injury from thrown objects going through weak or torn spots.
Safe Handling Of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care
in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
2. Use only an approved fuel container.
3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.
5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as on a
water heater or other appliances.
6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place the containers
on the ground away from the vehicle before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle or trailer
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel
equipment using a portable container, rather than a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in enclosed vehicles
or trailers.
9. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. DO
NOT use a nozzle lock-open device.
10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately.
11. DO NOT overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten
securely.
Operation
1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of discharge area while engine is running.
2. STOP engine when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads,
and under any conditions where thrown objects might be a
hazard.
3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
4. DO NOT operate mower while under the influence of alcohol
or drugs.
5. After striking a foreign object or if mower vibrates
abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and secure spark
plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and repair
the damage before starting.
6. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or embankments.
Operator could lose footing or balance.
7. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall grass
can hide obstacles. Keep away from ditches, washouts,
culverts, fences and protruding objects.
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