Lawn mowers: A medical menace?
The smell of fresh-cut grass isn’t usually associated with a public health hazard, but organizations representing disparate parts of the medical profession — pediatricians, orthopedic surgeons, and reconstructive surgeons — are calling attention to the little known risks of mowing your lawn.
By Michael Yudell
Injuries can be caused by contact with blades, heated components of the mechanism, projectiles shot from the mower. Ride-on models are more likely to cause injury than push mowers, particularly from getting run over or backed up on. Common injuries: cuts, burns, broken bones and, in extreme cases, damage requiring amputation.
The majority of lawn mower-related injuries are preventable, but efforts so far have not been effective. Mishaps are on the increase — up 3 percent in one year.
Only use a mower that has protection over hot and sharp parts.
Riding mowers should have the reverse switch behind the driver, forcing him or her to look behind when placing the machine in reverse.
Push mowers should have a control that stops forward motion when the handle is released.
Children should not be in the yard when the grass is being cut. If they must, then they should be kept at least 20 feet away from the running lawn mower at all times.
Children should be at least age 12 years old before operating a push mower, and 16 to operate a riding lawn mower.
Children should never be passengers on ride-on mowers.
Always wear sturdy shoes while mowing the lawn — do not wear sandals.
Remove stones, toys, and debris from the grass before mowing to prevent injuries from flying objects.
Always wear eye and hearing protection.
So be careful out there, folks.
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