SATURDAY, June 12 (HealthDay News) -- A coalition of several
major American health organizations has issued a cautionary
advisory in an attempt to draw attention to the specific risks
posed to children by lawn mower use.
The tip sheet, from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the
American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery, the American
Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Maxillofacial
Surgeons and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, is meant
to educate parents and children alike regarding the keys to lawn
mower safety.
The following is a list of some of the rules that, when
enforced, can help prevent injuries:
- Children younger than 12 should not operate any type of lawn
mower. And the minimum age for using a ride-on mower should be
16.
- Children should never ride alongside adults as passengers on
ride-on mowers, and should remain at a safe distance when adults
mow the lawn.
- Sturdy shoes are the optimal footwear for everyone nearby when
the lawn mower is operational, never sandals. And appropriate
eyewear and hearing protection are also encouraged.
- The lawn should be cleared of stones, toys and debris before
mowing begins, to prevent injuries caused by flying objects.
The experts also advise that when purchasing a lawn mower, look
for machines that have a forward control mechanism that stops the
machine from moving if the handle is released. And lastly, driving
backwards is a no-go unless absolutely required, and should be
exercised with extreme caution when necessary.
More information
For more on lawn mower safety, visit the
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.