Page 89 - GreenBook

N. Lawn Mower Safety:
The power lawn mower is one of the most dangerous tools around the home. Of
the 87,000 persons injured by power mowers 20,000 were younger than 25
years and 10,000 younger than 15 years. Older children and adolescents were
most often hurt while cutting lawns as chores or as a way to earn money.
Lawn mower injuries include deep cuts, loss of fingers and toes, broken and
dislocated bones, burns and eye and other injuries. Both users of mowers and
those who are nearby can be hurt.

To prevent lawn mower injuries to children, the American Academy of Pediatrics
recommends the following:
1. Only use a power mower with a control that stops the mower if the handle is

let go. This control should never be disconnected.
2. Do not allow children younger than 14 to use ride-on mowers. Do not allow

children younger than 12 to use walk-behind mowers.
3. Make sure that sturdy shoes (not sandals or sneakers) are worn while

mowing.
4. Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys, by picking up

objects from the lawn before mowing begins. Use a collection bag for grass
clippings or a plate that covers the opening where cut grass is released.
m Have anyone who uses a mower wear protective eyewear.
5. While the lawn is being mowed, keep others away to ensure their safety.
6. Start and refuel mowers outdoors, not in a garage or shed. Mowers should

be refueled with the motor turned off and cool.

m 7. Make sure that blade settings (to set the wheel height or dislodge debris)
are done by an adult, with the mower off and the spark plug removed or

disconnected.

imi O. Firearm Safety:
Children in homes where guns are present are in more danger of being shot by
themselves, their friends, or family members than injured by an intruder. It is
best to keep all guns out of the home. If you must keep a gun, keep it unloaded

^ and in a locked place separate from the ammunition. Handguns are especially

dangerous. Make sure your child does not play at a friend's home where there is
a gun. Talk to your child about guns in school or on your streets. Find out if
your child's friends carry guns.

^ P. Street Safety:

Your child is in danger of being hit by a car if he or she darts out into the street
while playing. A playground or park is the best place to play. Show your young

^ child the curb and teach him or her to always stop at the curb and never cross

the street without a grown-up. When you are teaching your child how to cross
the street safely teach him or her to stop at the curb, then look to the left, to the
right, and back to the left again.

Q. Animal Safety:
Teach your child to keep a distance from wild animals and unfamiliar pets even if
the animal appears tame. Rabid animals are often docile. Teach your child not
to touch any sick, injured or dead animals that they may find. Children need to

^ be taught respect andtenderness for pets kept by the family.

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