Protect Children From Mowers

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute urges adults to be responsible users of riding mowers and other lawn care equipment.

With spring in the air and a summer of lawn care just around the corner, those operating riding mowers must be proactive on safety. And once again, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute has issued a strong reminder about child safety, urging adults to keep children away from mowers at all times.

The mistake of taking kids for a ride on the mower is careless, dangerous and just shouldn't happen, according to OPEI recommendations. Riding mowers are designed for just that – mowing while riding. Riding mowers provide many safety features for the operator, but they are not built for passengers. Simply stated, children should not be anywhere near the operation of lawnmowers or the mowing area. This goes for all types of outdoor power equipment.

Furthermore, sometimes the media unintentionally adds to the problem, OPEI observed. Occasionally a newspaper will picture someone riding happily on a mower with a child on his or her lap. While seemingly innocent, the picture sends the wrong message about mowing safely, and OPEI hopes wise consumers will realize this. Reminder: riding mowers and children are like oil and water – they don't mix.

Lawnmower racing is an activity that can lead to accidents, OPEI reminded. Consumers and contractors should remember that riding mowers are hard-working utilitarian machines with sharp cutting blades designed to do yard work. They were not designed for racing, even if the cutting deck is removed.

Remember to “think safety with power in your hands” and, when operating any type of outdoor power equipment, practice these important do’s and don'ts.

  • Do read the manufacturer's operator's manual before operating.
  • Do keep small children out of the mowing area, and preferably indoors under adult supervision.
  • Do be alert and turn the mower off if children enter the area.
  • Do, before operating in reverse, look behind and down for small children.
  • Do not carry children. Riding mowers are designed for one operator only.
  • Do not allow children to operate a riding mower.
  • Do use extra care when approaching corners, shrubs, and trees.
  • Do handle fuel carefully and avoid spilling when you're filling.
  • Do wear the proper clothing – long slacks and sturdy shoes.
  • Do not drive a riding mower like a racecar – it’s a mower, not a racer.
  • Remember, carelessness is the leading cause of accidents and that's why OPEI urges homeowners to keep their children safe and always “think safety” when operating any type of outdoor power equipment.