Ryobi RY52001 - Manual (Page 4)

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SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR PRUNER USE
n Kickback is a dangerous reaction that can lead to serious
injury. Kickback may occur when the moving chain con-
tacts an object at the upper portion of the tip of the guide
bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the chain
in the cut. Contact at the upper portion of the tip of the
guide bar can cause the chain to dig into the object and
stop the chain for an instant. The result is a lightning-fast,
reverse reaction which kicks the guide bar up and back
toward the operator. If the chain is pinched along the top
of the guide bar, the guide bar can be driven rapidly back
toward the operator, which can cause loss of control and
may result in serious injury. Do not rely exclusively upon
the safety devices built into the product.
With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce
or eliminate the element of surprise. Sudden surprise
contributes to accidents.
n Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free
from obstructions. Do not let the nose of the guide bar
contact a log, branch, fence, or any other obstruction
while you are operating the unit.
n Cut only when visibility and light are adequate for you to
see clearly.
n Do not use on a ladder or unstable support. Always cut
with both feet on solid ground to prevent being pulled off
balance.
n To protect yourself from electrocution, do not operate
within 50 feet of overhead electrical lines.
n Before starting the engine, make sure the chain is not
contacting any object.
n Always cut with the engine running at full speed. Fully
squeeze the throttle trigger and maintain a steady cutting
speed.
n Do not force tool. Use the correct tool for your applica-
tion. The correct tool will do the job better and safer at
the rate for which it is designed.
n To protect yourself from falling branches, do not stand di-
rectly under the branch or limb being cut. This unit should
not be held at an angle over 60° from ground level.
n Keep the handles dry, clean, and free of oil or fuel mix-
ture.
n Shut off the engine and make sure the cutting attachment
has stopped before setting the unit down.
n To prevent electrical shock or serious personal injury, do
not use this product with any AC power head.
n Follow the sharpening and maintenance instructions for
the saw chain.
n Use only the replacement guide bars and low kickback
chains specified for the unit.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR TRIMMER
USE
n Replace string head if cracked, chipped, or damaged
in any way. Be sure the string head or blade is properly
installed and securely fastened. Failure to do so can cause
serious injury.
n Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors, and handles are
properly and securely attached.
n Use only the manufacturer’s replacement string in the
cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment.
To install any other brand of cutting head to this string
trimmer can result in serious personal injury.
n Never operate unit without the grass deflector in place
and in good condition.
n Maintain a firm grip on both handles while trimming. Keep
string head below waist level. Never cut with the string
head located over 30 in. or more above the ground.
REFUELING
n FUEL IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. Take precautions when
using to reduce the chance of serious personal injury.
n Store fuel in a cool, well-ventilated area, safely away from
spark and/or flame-producing equipment
n Store fuel in containers specifically designed for this
purpose.
n Only refuel outdoors and do not smoke while refueling.
n Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove the cap
of the fuel tank or add fuel while the engine is running or
when the engine is hot.
n If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but
move the machine away from the area of spillage and
avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors
have dissipated.
n Replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.
n If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES