Safety Rules - Craftsman 502.249274 Owner's Manual

SAFETY RULES
Safe Operation Practices for Riding Vehicles
As Recommended by American National Standards Institute
WARNING: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the
following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or bystanders.
GENERAL OPERATION:
1. Read, understand and follow all instructions in the Instruction Book, on the machine, the engine and with any attachments before
starting.
2. Only allow responsible adults familiar with the instructions to operate the machine.
3. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc. which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.
4. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop the machine if anyone enters the area.
5. Never carry passengers.
6. Disengage power to the mower or any attachments before backing up. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always
look down and behind before and while backing.
7. Be aware of the direction the mower discharges. Do not point discharge from the mower at anyone or at places where people may be.
Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass bagger or the mower guard in place.
8. Slow down before turning.
9. Never leave a machine unattended with the engine running. Always disengage the blade(s), set the parking brake, stop the engine and
remove the key before dismounting.
10. Disengage power to attachment(s) when transporting or not in use. Disengage the blade(s) when not mowing.
11. Stop the engine before removing the grass bagger or unclogging the chute.
12. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
13. DO not operate the machine while under the influence of alcehol or drugs or when very tired.
14. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
15. Use extra caution when loading or unloading the machine when using a trailer or truck for transporting.
16. Disengage all attachment clutches and shift into Neutral before attempting to start the engine.
17. Always wear safety glasses or an eye shield when you operate the unit to protect your eyes from foreign objects that can be thrown
from the unit. Always wear eye protection when you make an adjustment or repair to the machine.
18. Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment.
a. Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
b. Limit loads to those you can safely control.
c. Do not turn sharply. Use care when backing.
d. Use counterweights or wheel weights when suggested in the Instruction Book.
19. Do not operate this machine if you are taking drugs or other medication which can cause drowsiness or affect your ability to operate
this machine.
20. Do not use this machine if you are mentally or physically unable to operate this machine safely.
SLOPE OPERATION:
Slopes and rough terrain are major factors related to loss of control and tip over accidents which can result in severe injury or
death. ALL slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on the slope, do not mow it. See the
"Slope Guide" in the back of this book to check for safe operation.
DO
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across.
2. Remove obstacles such as rocks, limbs, etc...
3. Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. "Tall grass can hide obstacles."
4. Use slow speed. Choose a low enough gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.
5. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.
6. Use extra care with grass baggers or other attachments, they can change the stability of the machine.
7. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.
8. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
DO NOT
1. Do not turn on slopes unless absolutely necessary, then only turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
2. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. A wheel over the edge or an edge caving in could cause a sudden overturn and
an injury or death.
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.
F-95900