How to Properly Conduct a Mower Safety Inspection

Step 1: Give Your Mower a Visual Once-Over

Start by taking a step back and visually inspecting your mower from top to bottom. Here's what you should be keeping an eye out for:

• Loose or missing parts: Anything dangling or not where it should be?
• Damaged components: Look for cracks, breaks, or any part that appears "off."
• Fluid leaks: Check under the mower for any suspicious puddles. A little drip might be normal.

Step 2: Check Your Tires

No one wants a flat tire when they're halfway through mowing the lawn. Give your mower's tires a quick squeeze to make sure they're properly inflated. If they feel squishy at all, it's time to break out the tire gauge and pump them up. Tip: Uneven tire pressure can lead to uneven mowing.

Step 3: Inspect the Blades

Take a peek at the blades to make sure they are sharp and free of any debris that may be wrapped up in them. Dull blades can tear at the grass instead of giving a nice, clean cut, which make your lawn look patchy.

• Signs you may need sharpening: If the blades are nicked, bent, blunt, etc., it might be time for a quick sharpening.

Step 4: Check Your Fluids

Just like driving a car, don't skip checking the oil level when needed. Your Ferris mower engine needs the proper fluids to run smoothly, so check the oil using the dipstick to ensure the levels are where they need to be. If low, reference your owners manual to figure out the right grade of oil to top it off with. Tip: If the oil appears to be dark and grimy, it's probably time for a full oil change. While you're at it, might as well check the fuel levels as well to ensure you have enough to complete your work without having to make an extra trip.

Step 5: Test the Safety Features

Your Ferris is equipped with a bunch of built-in safety features designed to keep you safe. Before starting up your mower, take a minute to test the following:

• Parking Brake
• Blade Engagement System
• Seat Safety

Step 6: Clear the Area

Now that your mower is all checked out and ready to roll, take a quick walk throughout your work area and clear away any potential hazards. Rocks, sticks, toys, garden gnomes, and anything else that gets in the way of letting you and your mower get the job done. Your blades will thank us later.

Step 7: Gear Up

Lastly, let's talk about wardrobe. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and even eye protection to ensure your safety is put above anything else while operating your Ferris mower. Ear protection is a good idea too, especially if you are mowing for long periods of time.