Snowthrower Safety; Important Safety Information - Honda HS520A Owner's Manual

SNOWTHROWER SAFETY

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Honda snowthrowers are designed to clear snow from driveways and
walkways. Other uses can result in injury to the operator or damage to
the snowthrower and other property.
Most injuries and property damage with snowthrowers can be
prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the
snowthrower. The most common hazards are discussed below, along
with the best way to protect yourself and others.
Avoid Rotating Auger
The snowthrower auger can cause serious cuts and even amputate
fingers, hands, toes, or feet. Keep away from the auger whenever the
engine is running. If you need to work around the snowthrower to
clear snow for any reason, always shut off the engine. If the snow
discharge chute becomes clogged, stop the engine and disconnect
the spark plug cap. Use a wooden stick to remove the obstruction.
Never put your hand into the snow discharge chute while the engine is
running; serious personal injury could result.
Clear Operation Area
The snowthrower can throw rocks and other objects with enough
force to cause serious injury. Before operating the snowthrower,
carefully inspect the area and remove all obvious hazards. Never use
the snowthrower to clear snow from a gravel road or driveway, as
rocks may be picked up and ejected. They may cause injury to
bystanders.
Keep Shields in Place
Guards and shields are designed to protect you from being hit by
thrown objects and to keep you from touching hot engine parts and
moving components. For your safety and the safety of others, keep all
shields in place when the engine is running.
Adjust the snow discharge chute to avoid hitting the operator,
bystanders, windows, and other objects with ejected snow. Stay clear
of the snow discharge chute while the engine is running.
Children and pets must be kept away from the area of operation to
avoid injury from flying debris and contact with the snowthrower.
Refuel with Care
Gasoline is extremely flammable, and gasoline vapor can explode.
Allow the engine to cool if the snowthrower has been in operation.
Refuel only outdoors in a well-ventilated area with the engine OFF.
Never fill the fuel tank beyond the maximum fill mark. Never smoke
near gasoline, and keep other flames and sparks away. Always store
gasoline in an approved container.
Turn Engine Off When Not Operating the Snowthrower
If you need to leave the snowthrower for any reason, even just to
inspect the area ahead, always turn the engine off.
Operation on Slopes
To avoid overturning, be careful when changing the direction of the
snowthrower while operating it on a slope. Do not use the
snowthrower to remove snow from roofs. The snowthrower may
overturn on steep slopes if left unattended, causing injury to the
operator or bystanders.
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Operating Conditions
Do not use the snowthrower when visibility is poor. Under conditions
of poor visibility, there is a greater risk of striking an obstacle or
causing injury. Adjust the snow discharge chute to avoid hitting
passing bystanders or vehicles. Stay clear of the snow discharge
chute while the engine is running.
Operating Near Roads
Always watch for vehicle traffic when operating the snowthrower near
roads and driveways. Never operate the snowthrower on public roads.
Operator Responsibility
Know how to stop the snowthrower quickly in case of emergency.
Understand the use of all snowthrower controls.
Never permit anyone to operate the snowthrower without proper
instruction. Do not let children operate the snowthrower. If people or
pets suddenly appear in front of the snowthrower while it is in
operation, immediately release the auger and drive clutch lever to
stop the snowthrower and avoid possible injury from the rotating
auger.
While operating the snowthrower, hold the handle firmly, and walk,
don't run. Wear suitable winter boots that resist slipping.
Hot Exhaust
The muffler becomes very hot during operation and remains hot for a
while after stopping the engine. Be careful not to touch the muffler
while it is hot. Let the engine cool before transporting the snowthrower
or storing it indoors.
To prevent fire hazards, keep the snowthrower at least 3 feet
(1 meter) away from building walls and other equipment during
operation. Do not place flammable objects close to the engine.
Carbon Monoxide Hazards
Exhaust contains poisonous carbon monoxide, a colorless and
odorless gas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause loss of
consciousness and may lead to death.
Do not run the snowthrower in an area that is enclosed, or even
partially enclosed. The air you breathe could contain a dangerous
amount of exhaust gas.
Never run the engine inside a garage or confined area.