Safety first
1 Aug, 2006 By: Landscape Management Staff Landscape ManagementThe Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), the trade association for outdoor power equipment, reminds everyone using snow throwers to always think safety first. Obeying the following eight operating and safety tips will help prevent injuries and get you safely through the winter season:
1
Read the owner's manual. Get a thorough understanding of all recommended operating and safety procedures before turning on the snow thrower.
2
Never put your hands inside the chute for any reason. When the snow is wet, the snow thrower chute may become clogged. When this happens, turn off the snow thrower engine and wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop. Then, with a cleanout tool, clear the chute. If repair is needed, be sure to turn the engine off first and wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop.
3
Never disable safety features. The OPC (operator presence control) causes the snow thrower engine to stop within five seconds after an operator lets go of the controls. This is an important safety feature designed to help protect users. No matter how often the snow thrower may clog with wet snow, never disable this important safety feature.
4
Wear appropriate reflective clothing and footwear. Avoid loose-fitting clothing. Wear safety glasses to protect eyes from thrown ice, stones and other projectiles and pull long hair back.
5 Never allow children to operate the equipment. Keep children indoors and under supervision.
6 Stay back. Never allow anyone in front of the equipment.
7 Keep your target in mind. Never throw snow toward people or cars.
8 Watch out for hidden dangers. Be aware of any objects that may be buried under the snow.
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