Daytona 500-winning NASCAR driver Austin Dillon knows a thing or two about the importance of safety while operating machinery. Having spent nine seasons racing NASCAR, Dillon’s got the knowledge needed to keep himself safe while operating just about everything from his vehicle to his Exmark mower. In this video, he shares his best lawn mower safety tips that will ensure your mowing experience is always a safe one!
1. Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment, or PPE, is what Dillon says is the first and most important safety tip. Keeping your eyes protected from potential debris (and bugs that could fly in your face) is crucial, and Dillon says a basic pair of safety goggles can do the trick. You also want to keep your ears safe from the sound of your mower. A good pair of earplugs or even safety headphones will keep your hearing protected.
2. Secure the Roll Over Protection Structure Bar
Otherwise known as ROPS, the rollover protection structure of your Exmark mower is a bar that will keep you protected if the mower were to turn over as you operate it.
3. Discharge Chute
You’ll want to ensure that the discharge chute of your mower is properly attached. The discharge chute will help deflect objects on the lawn that can be thrown up by the blades. The debris can easily become dangerous projectiles that can cause injury to the operator.
4. Seat Belt
While it might not be a car, your Exmark mower is still a motorized piece of machinery. It’s crucial that you buckle yourself in. This prevents you from coming off the mower in case you hit an unexpected obstacle while you mow. You should always remain seated and buckled while mowing.
Now that you’ve got these excellent lawn mower safety tips, get out there and get working with your Exmark mower.