Safety - Toro 04353 Operator's Manual

Safety

Training
1. Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with
the controls and the proper use of the equipment.
2. Never allow children or people unfamiliar with
these instructions to use the lawn mower. Local
regulations may restrict the age of the operator.
3. Never mow while people, especially children, or
pets are nearby.
4. Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsi-
ble for accidents or hazards occurring to other peo-
ple or their property.
5. Do not carry passengers.
6. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction. Such instruction should
emphasize:
• the need for care and concentration when
working with ride-on machines;
• control of a ride-on machine sliding on a slope
will not be regained by the application of the
brake. The main reasons for loss of control
are:
– insufficient wheel grip;
– being driven too fast;
– inadequate braking;
– the type of machine is unsuitable for its
task;
– lack of awareness of the effects of ground
conditions, especially slopes;
– incorrect hitching and load distribution.
Preparation
1. While mowing, always wear substantial footwear
and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
2. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is
to be used and remove all objects which may be
thrown by the machine.
3. WARNING—Petrol is highly flammable.
• Store fuel in containers specifically designed for
this purpose.
• Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while
refueling.
• Add fuel before starting the engine. Never
remove the cap of the fuel tank or add petrol
while the engine is running or when the engine
is hot.
• If petrol is spilled, do not attempt to start the
engine but move the machine away from the are
of spillage and avoid creating any source of igni-
tion until petrol vapors have dissipated.
• Replace all fuel tanks and container caps
securely.
4. Replace faulty silencers.
Operation
1. Do not operate the engine in a confined space where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
2. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
3. Before attempting to start the engine, disengage all
blade attachment clutches and shift into neutral.
4. Do not use on slopes of more than:
• Never mow side hills over 5°
• Never mow uphill over 10°
• Never mow downhill over 15°
5. Remember there is no such thing as a "safe" slope.
Travel on grass slopes requires particular care. To
guard against overturning:
• do not stop or start suddenly when going up or
downhill;
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