Ariens Max Zoom 48 Operation Manual - Page 7

Inspect unit before each use for: missing or damaged decals and shields, correctly operating safety interlock system, and deterioration of grass catchers. Replace or repair as needed. ALWAYS check overhead and side clearances carefully before operation. ALWAYS be aware of traffic when operating along streets or curbs. Keep children and people away. Keep children out of work area and under watchful care of a responsible adult. Keep area of operation clear of all toys, pets, and debris. Thrown objects can cause injury. Check for weak spots on docks, ramps or floors. Avoid uneven work areas and rough terrain. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. DO NOT operate near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. Unit can suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in. Data indicates that operators, age 60 and above, are involved in a larger 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. Read the entire Owner/Operator manual and other training material. If the operator or the mechanic cannot read the manual, it is the owner's responsibility to explain it to them. Only the user can prevent and is responsible for accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other people or property. Only trained adults may operate or service unit. Training includes actual operation. Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator. NEVER allow children to operate or play on or near unit. Be alert and shut off unit if children enter area. NEVER operate unit after or during the use of medication, drugs or alcohol. Safe operation requires your complete and unimpaired attention at all times. DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry and tie back hair that may get caught in rotating parts. Wear adequate outer garments. NEVER wear open sandals or canvas shoes during operation. Wear adequate safety gear, protective gloves and footwear. Wear proper footwear to improve footing on slippery surfaces. Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating mower. Moving parts can cut or amputate fingers or a hand. Wrap blade(s) or wear gloves to service. On multiblade mowers, rotation of one blade will cause all blades to rotate. NEVER place your hands or any part of your body or clothing inside or near any moving part while unit is running. ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from all rotating parts during operation. Rotating parts can cut off body parts. ALWAYS keep body and hands away from pin holes or nozzles which eject hydraulic fluid under pressure. DO NOT touch parts which are hot. Allow parts to cool. ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from all pinch points. Fumes from the engine exhaust can cause death or serious injury. DO NOT run engine in an enclosed area. Always provide good ventilation. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting. Understand: • How to operate all controls • The functions of all controls • How to STOP in an Emergency • Braking and steering characteristics • Turning radius and clearances Keep safety devices or guards in place and functioning properly. NEVER modify or remove safety devices. Do not operate without either entire grass catcher or the discharge guard in place. Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute. Ensure Safety Interlock System is functioning properly. DO NOT operate unit if safety interlock is damaged or disabled. Start and operate unit only when seated in operator's position. Steering control levers must be in neutral, PTO disengaged and parking brake set when starting engine. Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may obscure vision. Dust, smoke, fog, etc. can reduce vision and cause an accident. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Avoid slippery surfaces. Always be sure of your footing. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding and effect the machine's stability. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. Never carry passengers. DO NOT try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground. Never direct discharge towards persons or property that may be injured or damaged by thrown objects. Use extreme caution on gravel surfaces. GB - 7