Mowing the lawn might seem like a routine task, but did you know that thousands of people are injured each year in lawnmower-related accidents? With both push mowers and riding mowers, taking safety precautions is essential to prevent serious injuries.
Why Lawnmower Safety Matters
Lawnmower accidents can lead to severe injuries. The blades of a mower rotate at high speeds and can cause serious harm, as rocks or sticks can be thrown from the mower, posing risks to bystanders. Following proper safety measures can help reduce the risk of accidents and create a safer mowing experience.
- Read the Owner’s Manual: Before using your mower, take the time to read the manufacturer’s instructions. Understanding how your specific machine operates can help prevent mishaps and maintenance.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate clothing while mowing, including:
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
- Long pants to protect your legs from debris
- Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes
- Hearing protection if using a loud mower
- Inspect Your Mower Before Use: Before starting your mower, conduct a quick inspection to make sure everything is in working order:
- Check for loose, damaged, or missing parts
- Make sure the blades are sharp and properly attached
- Ensure there are no leaks in the fuel or oil lines
- Clear the Lawn of Debris: Before mowing, remove sticks, rocks, toys, and other objects from the lawn. These items can become dangerous projectiles if struck by the mower blades.
- Keep Children and Pets Away: Never allow children or pets near or on a running lawnmower. Even when turned off, the blades may still be sharp enough to cause injuries.
- Never Reach Under the Mower: If your mower becomes clogged, turn it off before attempting to clear debris. Never try to unclog the mower while it's running.
- Refuel with Care: When refueling a gas-powered mower:
- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool before adding fuel
- Never refuel while the mower is running
- Store fuel in an approved container away from heat sources
- Perform Regular Maintenance: Keeping your lawnmower in good condition is key to safety. Regularly:
- Sharpen and replace blades as needed
- Change the oil and check filters
- Inspect cables, belts, and moving parts for wear
Always prioritize safety, remain alert, and use common-sense while operating your mower. A little precaution goes a long way for a safe and injury-free mowing season!
Source used in this article:
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. “Lawn Mower Safety” https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/1987/LAWN-MOWER-SAFETY. Accessed 3 April, 2025.
This information and any attachments or links are provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. They are derived from information believed to be accurate. Utica Mutual Insurance Company and the other member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group (“Utica National”) are not providing professional services. Utica National shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of the information provided.