Important Safe Operation Practices - MTD 31A-050-706 Operator's Manual

ImportantSafeOperation Practices
2
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,
could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow
all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply
with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol, HEED ITS WARNING!
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in
this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the
operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating fingers, hands,
toes and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could
result in serious injury or death.
WARNING: When using electric snow throwers, basic safety precautions should always be
followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. These basic
precautions include the following.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
DoubleInsulatedSnowThrower
Double insulation is a concept in the safety of electric snow throwers, which eliminates the need for the usual
three-wire grounded power cord and grounded power supply system. Wherever there is electric current in the
snow thrower, there are two complete sets of insulation to protect the user. All exposed metal parts are isolated
from the internal metal motor components with protecting insulation.
Servicing of a snow thrower with double insulation requires extreme care and knowledge of the system and
should be performed only by a qualified service technician. For repair service we suggest you take the snow
thrower to your nearest authorized service dealer. Always use original equipment manufacturer's (OEM)
replacement parts when servicing.
Before Operating
1. Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls
and proper use of the unit.
2. Do not operate this unit when tired, ill or under the
influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
3. Keep children and other bystanders away. All visitors
should be kept a safe distance from work area.
4. Children under the age of 15 must not use the unit;
properly trained older teens may operate the unit with
adult supervision.
5. Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Make
sure all fasteners are in place and secure. Replace snow
thrower parts that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any
way.
6. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
7. Thoroughly inspect the area where the snow thrower is to
be used. Remove all doormats, sleds, boards, wires, debris,
and other foreign objects which may be thrown by the
snow thrower.
8. Make sure the auger will spin freely before using the unit.
9. Dress properly. Wear adequate winter outer garments.
Wear heavy, long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve
shirt. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants,
sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.
10. Wear footwear that doesn't leak when operating the snow
thrower and that will improve footing on slippery surfaces.
Wear rubber boots.
11. Never attempt to make adjustments while the motor is
running.
12. Let the motor and unit adjust to outdoor temperatures
before starting to clear snow.
13. Always wear safety glasses/shields or goggles at all times
during operation or while performing an adjustment or
repair to protect eyes from foreign objects that may be
thrown from the machine.
14.
When servicing use only identical replacement parts.
Replace or repair damaged cords.