Husqvarna L321AH Owner Manual - Page 3

aaIMPORTANT Safe Practices for Pedestrian-Controlled and Ride-On Mowers WARNING! This 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. General information • Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings in this document, the operator's manual and on the machine, engine and attachments. • Only allow operators, who are responsible, trained, familiar with the instructions, and physically capable to operate the machine. • Do not carry passengers and keep bystanders away. • Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. • Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights. Preparation before operating • Clear the operating area of any objects which could be thrown by or interfere with operation of the machine. • Keep the area of operation clear of all bystanders, particularly small children. Stop the machine and attachment(s) if anyone enters the area. • Do not operate the machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge chute, or other safety devices in place and functioning properly. Check frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed. • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, hearing protection, and footwear. Operating • Only operate the engine in well ventilated areas. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison. • Only operate the machine in daylight or good artificial light. • Avoid holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden hazards. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine, or cause operator to lose their balance or footing. • Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times. • Do not direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces. • Do not leave a running machine unattended. Always park on level ground, disengage the attachment, set parking brake, and stop engine. • Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Children specific • Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them. • Keep children out of the operating area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator. • Do not carry children, even with the blade(s) shut off. Children could fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation. Children who have been given rides in the past could suddenly appear in the mowing area for another ride and be run over or backed over by the machine.* Slope specific • Slopes are a major factor related to accidents. Operation on slopes requires extra caution. • Travel in the manufacturer recommended direction on slopes. Use caution while operating near dropoffs. • Avoid mowing wet grass. (Poor footing could cause a slip and fall accident.**) • Do not operate machine under any condition where traction, steering, or stability is in question. Tires could slide even if the wheels are stopped. • Always keep the machine in gear when going down slopes. Do not coast downhill. • Avoid starting and stopping on slopes. Avoid making sudden changes in speed or direction. Make turns slowly and gradually. • Use extra care while operating machine with a grass catcher or other attachment(s). They can affect the stability of the machine. Fire and fuel specific • Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition. • Use only an approved fuel container. • Do not remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running or while hot. • Do not refuel indoors or in enclosed spaces. • Do not store the machine or fuel container, or refuel, where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliance. • If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated. • To help prevent fires: keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build up; clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris; allow machine to cool before storing. • Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive. Hauling • Use full width ramps for loading and unloading a machine for transport. Towing* • Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.* ROPS* • The ROPS is an integral and effective safety device. Do not remove or alter the ROPS.*