Stihl FS 70 R Product Instruction Manual - Page 5

FS models with an "R" on the nameplate were originally configured (at the time of distribution) as a trimmer with a loop handle. Warning! As more fully explained later in these Safety Precautions, to reduce the risk of personal injury, make sure your unit is equipped with the proper handle, harness and deflector for the type of cutting attachment you are using. Use only cutting attachments that are specifically authorized by STIHL for use on your FS model. Have your STIHL dealer show you how to operate your power tool. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances. Warning! Do not lend or rent your power tool without the instruction manual. Be sure that anyone using it understands the information contained in this manual. Warning! The use of this machine may be hazardous. If the rotating line or blade comes in contact with your body, it will cut you. When it comes in contact with solid foreign objects such as rocks or bits of metal, it may fling them directly or by ricochet in the direction of bystanders or the operator. Striking such objects could damage the cutting attachment and may cause blades to crack, chip or break. Thrown objects, including broken heads or blades, may result in serious or fatal injury to the operator or bystanders. STIHL does not recommend the use of rigid blades when cutting in stony areas. Use your trimmer/brushcutter equipped with the appropriate cutting attachment only for cutting grass and similar material. Warning! Do not use it for other purposes, since misuse may result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the machine Warning! Minors should never be allowed to use this power tool. Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where it is in use. Warning! To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and damage to property, never let your power tool run unattended. When it is not in use (e.g. during a work break), shut it off and make sure that unauthorized persons do not use it. Most of these safety precautions and warnings apply to the use of all STIHL trimmer/brushcutters. Different models may have different parts and controls. See the appropriate section of your instruction manual for a description of the controls and the function of the parts of your model. Do not clean your machine with a pressure washer. The solid jet of water may damage parts of the machine. Safe use of a trimmer/brushcutter involves English 1. the operator 2. the power tool 3. the use of the power tool. THE OPERATOR Physical Condition You must be in good physical condition and mental health and not under the influence of any substance (drugs, alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. Do not operate this machine when you are fatigued. Warning! Be alert - if you get tired, take a break. Tiredness may result in loss of control. Working with any power tool can be strenuous. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating this machine. Warning! Prolonged use of a power tool (or other machines) exposing the operator to vibrations may produce whitefinger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand's ability to feel and regulate temperature, produce numbness and burning sensations and may cause nerve and circulation damage and tissue necrosis. All factors which contribute to whitefinger disease are not known, but cold weather, smoking and diseases or physical conditions that affect blood FS 70 RC 3