The importance of lawnmower safety can never be overstated. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 253,000 people were treated for lawn mower-related injuries in 2010, nearly 17,000 of them children under the age of 19. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission found that these types of injuries have increased by three percent since 2009.
Even when proper precautions are taken, accidents can still occur, and while the consequences can be very serious, lawnmower injuries are preventable.
The following information for parents and families can help avoid a terrible injury or tragedy that unfortunately occurs far too often.
Staying Safe
Keep the following tips in mind to practice lawnmower safety and steer clear of injuries:
- Children under 12 years of age should not operate a mower of any type, and riding mowers should be operated by individuals 16 and older.
- Children should never ride as passengers of a ride-on mower.
- Sturdy footwear should always be worn during operation, and sandals should be avoided.
- Small children should be kept a safe distance away while the mower is running.
- Special care should be taken when driving in reverse.
- Protective eyewear should be worn by the mower operator as well as by children in the area.
- Pick up any toys, large debris, and stones before mowing to prevent injuries that may occur due to flying objects.
Please share these important safety tips with your family, friends, childcare providers, relatives, and neighbors… It could prevent serious injury and perhaps save a life!
