Dixon SpeedZTR 539 131354 - Manual (Page 4)

4
SAFETY RULES
DANGER !
THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING
OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand and follow all instructions
in the manual and on the machine before
starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate the
machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
stones, toys, wire etc., which could be picked
up and thrown by the blades.
• Be sure the area is clear of all people and
pets before mowing. Stop the machine if
anyone enters the area.
• Never carry passengers or children even with
blades off.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind
before and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction
and do not direct it towards anyone. Do not
operate the mower without either the entire
grass catcher or the guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave the machine unattended when
the engine is running. Always turn off the
blades, set the parking brake, stop the
engine and remove the key before leaving
the machine.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass catcher
or unclogging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch out for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading and unloading
the machine onto a trailer or truck.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years
and above, are involved in a large percent-
age of riding mower-related injuries. These
operators should evaluate their ability to
operate the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious
injury.
• DO NOT operate mower with grass catcher,
unless the front weights are installed.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other
debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust/
engine parts and burn. Do not allow the
mower deck to plow leaves or other debris
which can cause buildup to occur. Clean any
oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing
the machine. Allow machine to cool before
storage.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-
control and tip-over accidents, which can result in
severe injury or death. All slopes require extra
caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you
feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.
DO
• Mow up and down slopes (10° Max.), not
across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs,
etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overturn the machine. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low speed so that
you will not have to stop while on the slope.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability
of the machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in
speed or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires
lose traction, disengage the blades and
proceed slowly straight down the slope.