Husqvarna MZ 61 Owners Manual - Page 7

SAFETY Safety Instructions These instructions are for your safety. Read them carefully. General Operation WARNING! THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. • Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual before starting. • It is recommended that someone be aware that you are mowing and can provide help in case of injury or accident. • Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times. • Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine. • Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blades. • Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. • Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. • Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces. • Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working • Slow down before turning. • Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set park brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting. • Never carry passengers. The machine is only intended for use by one person. • Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard. • Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light. • Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. • Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. • Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck. • Always wear eye protection when operating machine. • Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while operating this machine, including (at a minimum) sturdy footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection. Do not mow in shorts and/or footwear with open toes. • Data indicates that operators age 60 years and above are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury. • Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights. • Anyone who operates this machine must first read and understand this Operation Manual. Local laws may regulate the age of the user. • Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust or engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause buildup to occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. • Allow machine to cool before storage. Personal Safety Equipment • Make sure that first aid equipment is close at hand when using the machine. • Never use the machine when barefoot. • Always wear protective shoes or boots, preferably with steel toe caps. • Always wear approved protective glasses or a full visor when assembling or driving. • Always wear gloves when handling the blades. • Never wear loose clothing that can get caught in moving parts. • Use ear protectors to avoid damage to hearing. WARNING! When using the machine, approved personal protective equipment should be used. Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate the risk of injury but it will reduce the degree of injury if an accident does happen. Ask your retailer for help in choosing the right equipment. 7