Ariens EDGE 34 Operator's Manual page 11

NEVER tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation regularly. NEVER do
anything to interfere with the intended
function of a safety device or to reduce the
protection provided by the safety device.
Check parking brake operation frequently.
Adjust and service as required.
Wear appropriate personal protective
equipment such as safety glasses, hearing
protection, and substantial footwear. DO
NOT mow barefoot or while wearing
sandals.
Operating
Improper use of power equipment can cause
serious permanent injury or death to the
operator or a bystander. Understand:
• How to operate all controls
• The functions of all controls
• How to STOP in an emergency
• Braking and steering characteristics
• Turning radius and clearances
If the operator or the mechanic cannot read
the manual, it is the owner's responsibility to
explain it to them. Manuals are available in
other languages at www.ariens.com.
Only run the engine in well ventilated areas.
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless deadly poison.
Only operate the machine in daylight or
good artificial light.
Avoid holes, ruts, bumps, rocks and other
hazards. Uneven terrain could overturn the
machine, or cause operator to lose their
balance, footing and/or control of the mower.
DO NOT put hands or feet near rotating
parts or under the machine. Keep clear of
the discharge opening at all times.
Avoid slippery surfaces. ALWAYS be sure of
your footing.
Stop engine before removing grass catcher
or unclogging chute.
DO NOT direct discharge material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material against
a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet
back toward the operator. Stop the blade(s)
when crossing gravel surfaces. DO NOT
mow into roads or across sidewalks.
DO NOT leave a running machine
unattended. ALWAYS park on level ground,
disengage the attachment, set parking
brake, stop engine and remove key (if
applicable) before leaving the operator's
position.
DO NOT mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. ALWAYS look down and behind
before and while backing.
Lightning can cause severe injury or death.
If lightning is seen or thunder is heard in the
area, DO NOT operate the machine; seek
shelter.
If you strike a foreign object, stop and
inspect the machine. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
ALWAYS check overhead and side
clearances carefully before operation. Keep
in mind that your mower deck may be wider
than your track width.
Children Specific
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the machine
and the mowing activity. NEVER assume
that children will remain where you last saw
them.
Keep children out of the operating area and
under the watchful care of a responsible
adult other than the operator.
Do not carry children, even with the blade(s)
shut off. Children could fall off and be
seriously injured or interfere with safe
machine operation. Children who have been
given rides in the past could suddenly
appear in the mowing area for another ride
and be run over or backed over.
DO NOT allow children under the age of 18
to operate any outdoor power equipment.
Slope Specific
Slopes are a major factor related to
accidents. Operation on slopes requires
extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope
DO NOT mow it. Use the parking brake for
emergency stops.
DO Not operate on slopes of more than 15°.
Do not mow within 1.2 M (4 feet) of a drop
off. Do not mow within 1.2 M (4 feet) of a
pond or other waterway.
The primary hazard of slope operation is
loss of control and/or roll over.
EN - 7