Craftsman 917.276920 - Manual (Page 5)

SAFETY RULES
• Remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the
ground. If fhis is not possible, then
refuel such equipment with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
of the fuel tank or container opening at
all times until fueling is complete. Do not
use a nozzle lock-open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap
and tighten securely.
GENERAL SERVICE
• Never operate machine in a closed area.
• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure
the equipment is in safe working condi­
tion.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage and remove any fuel-soaked
debris. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
If you sfrike a foreign object, stop and
inspect the machine. Repair, if neces­
sary, before restarting.
Never make any adjustments or repairs
with the engine running.
Check grass catcher components and
the discharge guard frequently and re­
place with manufacturer’s recommended
parts, when necessary.
Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the
blade or wear gloves, and use extra cau­
tion when servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Adjust
and service as required.
Maintain or replace safety and instruc­
tion labels, as necessary.
Be sure the area is clear of bystand­
ers before operating. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless abso­
lutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
Never carry children, even with the
blades shut off. They may fall off and
be seriously injured or interfere with
safe machine operation. Children who
have been given rides in the past may
suddenly appear in the mowing area for
another ride and be run over or backed
over by the machine.
Keep children out of the mowing area
and in the watchful care of a responsible
adult other than the operator.
Be alert and turn machine off if a child
enters the area.
Before and while backing, look behind
and down for small children.
Mow up and down slopes (15° Max), not
across.
Choose a low ground speed so that you
will not have to stop or shift while on the
slope.
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a
slope. If the tires lose traction, disen­
gage the blades and proceed slowly
straight down the slope.
If machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse and
back down slowly.
Do not turn on slopes unless neces­
sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhiil, if possible.