Use Your Snowblower Safely
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Every year emergency rooms see many people with severe injuries caused by improper use of snowblowers and lawnmowers. Deep cuts, loss of toes and fingers, broken and crushed bones burns and even death have occurred to people of all ages but mostly to adults of 25 to 64 years.
Basic Safety Tips
Before you use a snowblower read the manual carefully and make sure you know how to use it before you even touch the starter. Never operate a snowblower, or any other machine, while under the influence of alcohol or any medication that can impare your mental ability. Always leave in place any safety devices e.g. shields or switch guards and always keep the feet and hands away from any moving parts. Keep children away from the area when operating the snowblower and never leave it running unattended. Shut off the engine if you need to leave it, even for a few minutes. Fill up the gas tank when the engine is cold and never fill up with the engine running or when it is hot.
Wear close fitting clothes to avoid tangling in the moving parts and ear protection for gasoline driven snowblowers.
If twigs or other debris foul up the snowblower use a broom handle or stick to remove it not your hands. If the auger or discharge chute becomes blocked use the supplied clearing tool to clear it, never your hands. Snowblowers can throw objects as well as snow a good distance so ensure that there are no people or pets in the area. It would be a good idea, when snow is predicted, to make sure the area is clear of debris before the snow falls.
A gasoline engine has its own risks. It produces toxic fumes so never run the engine in an enclosed space. An electric motor is powerful and can cause injury and the addition of electricity increases the risk. Always use a cord manufactured for outside and an outlet with ground fault interrupting protection. Be careful not to sever the electric cord as shock and electrocution can result.
Maintenance
Maintain your snowblower properly. This is particularly important for gasoline engines so check the oil level regularly and always check the chute position before use. for an electric snowblower check that the cord is in good condition and there are no frayed places. Replace the cord as soon as it is frayed or has exposed wires.
Follow all the safety rules and you will avoid a visit to the emergency room!
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