Lawn mowers, mulchers, hedge clippers, grass cutters, weed-eaters are some of the necessary equipment for this task. These tools can pose some dangers to the person performing the task as well as others in the immediate area. One must be careful with lawn equipment to prevent an accident. There are also certain guidelines which are very important to follow while you are mowing your lawn.
These steps can offer protection while mowing the lawn
- Fill the gas tank before starting mowing and never refuel while it is hot.
- Use necessary protective gears before venturing into the task.
- Keep children, pets or any member not involved in the task out of the area.
- Handle each machine and tool very carefully. Before using any new equipment, become knowledgeable on its proper use and read the guidelines.
- Always unplug wires after you finish work. AND never leave any machine unattended while in motion.
Apart from the danger of physical injury there is another hazard which is often neglected. Lawn mowing is an outdoor task which requires you to be under the sun for a significant time. Being in contact with the South Florida’s strong sunshine for such a long time can make you susceptible to skin cancer. Skin cancer or Melanoma is one of the most common diseases in United States and one of the factors behind this is extended exposure to sun without proper protection.
Sun Exposure while Lawn Mowing can be Avoided with Simple Steps
- Always use sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must when you are out in the sun for more than 20 minutes. Choose a sunscreen lotion that has at least SPF 30 or more and slather it on all the exposed parts of your body. Also make sure that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. - Don’t forget to re-apply
Re-applying your sunscreen after every two hours is as important as applying it in the first place. Most of the sunscreen loses its efficacy after two hours so applying them all over again is important to keep yourself protected in the long run. - Cover as much as possible
If you do not have a sunscreen then physical barrier is the solution. Loose, comfortable clothes that can cover your whole hands and legs are good choice to keep the harmful effects of the sun away. - Sunglasses and hat
These two accessories are very effective in keeping your delicate eyes and face protected. Choose a broad sunglass and wide brimmed hat to optimize their protection power. - Timing is important
Sun is in its full power from 10 in the morning till 4 in the afternoon. It is best to avoid this time of day and go for mowing in the late afternoon or mid-morning.
Lawn care maintenance is a time-consuming task and requires skill to do it. So, while you are at it, do not forget to keep the safety measures in mind. Also, make sure that you take enough precaution so that you can eliminate any probable hazard, one of them being the life-threatening skin cancer.
Lawn Mowing Hazards – Summary
We all know the saying, precaution is better than cure and this is applicable here for sure. While beautifying your yard, you would not like to invite any hazard into your life. It is wise to keep yourself protected from any probable danger and enjoy the beauty of your lawn without any regret.
