Health Tip: Be Safe Around Lawn Mowers

(HealthDay News) — Thousands of adults and children are hurt each year from lawn mower-related accidents.

But there are things you can do to protect yourself and your family. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons advises:

Ensure that the mower has a protective cover over parts that are sharp or may become hot. Riding mowers should have a reverse switch, usually found behind the driver’s seat. Push mowers should have a safety feature that stops the mower when the handle is released.
Instruct children to stay indoors when the mower is in use. If they must be outside, they should be kept at least 20 feet from the mower.
Never let a child under age 12 operate a push mower, or a child under 16 operate a riding mower. Never allow anyone to be a passenger on a riding mower.
Protect feet with sturdy shoes (never sandals), and use eye and hearing protection.
Pick up toys, rocks and debris from the yard before mowing.