Spring Yard Work? Remember Safety First

(NAPSI)—If you’re like most people, spring is the time to get out your lawn equipment to shape up your yard. But before you fire up your lawn mower, trimmer, and other yard gear, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) reminds you to keep safety in mind.

“We all want to get outside and work on our yards, but your equipment needs some attention first,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, an international trade association representing outdoor power equipment, small engine, utility vehicle, golf car and personal transport vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. “A little prep can go a long way in keeping things safe and running smoothly.”

Here are a few simple tips:

• Follow manufacturers’ guidance. It sounds basic, but it’s important. If you lost the manufacturer’s owner’s manual, you can usually find it online.

• Inspect your equipment. Check fuel, oil and air filters. Look for damaged or missing parts. 

• Never disable, modify or remove safety devices.

• Use fresh fuel. Buy the amount of fuel you need. Never store equipment with fuel in the tank. Remember, storing fuel in hot, humid conditions will make the fuel grow stale more quickly. 

• Charge batteries using an appropriate charger. Use the charger that came with your equipment and follow the manufacturer instructions. Follow their guidance on storing batteries properly.

• Clean and store equipment properly. Wipe off dirt and debris and keep your equipment in a dry spot. 

• Always keep kids and pets away while operating equipment.

For more safety information about outdoor power equipment, visit www.opei.org.

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