Things You'll Need:
- Mower manual
- Eye protection
- Ear protection
- Steel toe shoes
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Step 1
Know the safety features on the lawn mower from the manual. Read how to safely fill the gas tank and inspect the blade, safety shields and discharge deflector. If a manual is not available contact the manufacturer. Request one via mail or search for the company's name then see if a downloadable manual is available on their website.
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Step 2
Dress safely with eye protection, ear-plugs, gloves and shoes. Steel toe shoes are recommended.
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Step 3
Walk over the grass looking for rocks, branches, cans and other debris. Remove these potential projectiles before cutting the lawn. Make mental note of holes or depressions in the lawn. These could potentially catch a wheel, tilt the mower or bring the blade into contact with the ground.
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Step 4
Adjust wheel height according to the tallness of the grass. Keep lawn height 2 to 3 inches. Raise or lower with the engine off. Most models have individual wheel adjustments. A lever is pulled out of its locking position and placed into either an upper or lower slot.
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Step 5
Cut the grass at a slow pace. Let a self propelled mower move with its own speed.
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Step 6
Know at all times the location of the power cord for an electric mower. Always mow away from it.
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Step 7
Mow slopes sideways not up and down for both push and riding mowers. This method avoids potential turnovers and rollbacks.
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Step 8
Cut your lawn in a forward direction using reverse sparingly.
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Step 9
Slow down when mowing around trees, shrubs or ornaments.
