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Keeping Kids Safe Around Mowers

Apr. 6 2018 News By Katherine Haas

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Keeping Kids Safe Around Mowers 

A slow-moving machine like a lawnmower may not look dangerous, but the spinning blades can pose hazards—especially for children! Next time you tend to your lawn, remember that keeping kids safe around mowers is an important safety practice.

Why so dangerous?

Being run over by any heavy, moving object can be dangerous, but the spinning blades on a lawnmower significantly increase the danger. Small children can be oblivious to this danger and run in front of the lawnmower before you have time to stop, leading to terrifying consequences. Additionally, flying debris kicked up by the blades can hit and injure an unsuspecting child.

Lawnmower safety tips for children

Follow these tips for keeping kids safe around mowers:

  • Teach your children to respect mowers and to be careful when the mower is operating.
  • Keep small children indoors, preferably with adult supervision, while a mower is being operated.
  • Stay alert; as previously mentioned, small children can run unseen in front of the mower’s path.
  • Don’t give children rides even if it sounds like a fun idea; the child may fall off the mower and injure himself or herself.
  • Pick up sticks, stones, and other objects from the yard before mowing.
  • Look behind you while backing up and both ways while turning.

What if I want to teach my child to mow the lawn?

Lawn mowing is a normal chore for many children with yards, but keeping kids safe around mowers is important at all ages. Ensure your child is mature and respectful enough to use the lawnmower, and provide adult supervision until you are confident the child can perform the task on his or her own. As recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, hold off on letting your kid use a walk-behind mower or hand mower until he or she is 12-years-old, and wait until he or she is 16-years-old to use a riding lawnmower.

Whether you’re teaching your child to operate a lawnmower or needing to safe guard your small child, following these tips should keep all family members safe and sound.

Stephens Garage is proud to serve Luverne and the surrounding community for its small engine, outdoor equipment and auto service needs. Come see us today on Forest Avenue in Luverne, or visit us at www.stephensgarageluverne.com!