Safe Handling Of Gasoline - Briggs & Stratton 7800950-01 Operator's Manual

6. KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE (at least two mower widths)
away from edge of ditches and other drop offs. The
machine could turn over if an edge caves in.
7. Always begin forward motion slowly and with caution.
8. DO NOT begin forward motion while the machine is roll-
ing backwards. A rearward tip-over may result.
9. Use weights or a weighted load carrier in accordance
with instructions supplied with a grass catcher or other
attachments. DO NOT operate machine on slopes
exceeding 10 degrees (18% grade) when equipped with
grass catcher or other attachments.
10. DO NOT put your foot on the ground to try to stabilize
the machine.
11. DO NOT operate machine on wet grass. Reduced trac-
tion could cause sliding.
12. Choose a low enough speed setting so that you will not
have to stop or shift on a slope. Tires may lose traction
on slopes even though the brakes are functioning prop-
erly.
13. DO NOT operate machine under any condition where
traction, steering or stability is doubtful.
14. Always keep the machine in gear when going down
slopes. DO NOT shift to neutral (or actuate hydro roll
release) and coast downhill.
15. Machine stability is tested in accordance with the appli-
cable ANSI B71 standard using an operator weight of
200 lbs. To minimize the risk of a tip-over or roll-over,
operators weighing more than 200 lbs. should further limit
the ground speed and the degree of slope to be mowed.
Preparation
1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings
in this manual and on the machine, engine and attach-
ments. Know the controls and the proper use of the
machine 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 oth-
ers from serious injury.
4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and
vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel con-
tainer. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine
running. Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and
cool. Clean spilled fuel from machine. DO NOT smoke.
5. Practice operation of machine with BLADES OFF to learn
controls and develop skills.
6. 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.
7. Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately
STOP blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if any-
one enters the area.
8. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and
other safety devices frequently for proper operation and
location.
9. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if
damaged.
10. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses,
a dust mask, hearing protection, long pants and substan-
tial footwear.
11. Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in prepa-
ration for emergencies.
12. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
13. 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 worn
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 run-
ning. 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 con-
tainers 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 vehi-
cles 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.
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