Snow Thrower Safety: Keep These Tips In Mind

It sounds like snow is on the way. We may have had a dry November and most of December; but it's headed our way. I'm hoping that you are prepared already; but if not, here are some Snow Thrower tips you might want to keep in mind.

HAVE YOU READ YOUR OWNERS MANUAL?

The answer for me? YES. It's really important for you review all of the safety procedures in the manual so you know how to stop your Snow Thrower in an emergency. Do you know how to operate all of the controls and levers? If you don't have a manual for your Snow Thrower, you can probably look it up and find it online.

HAVE YOU CHECKED YOUR SNOW THROWER

Make sure that your Thrower is completely powered off when you check it over. If you forgot to drain the fuel out last year, empty the gas tank. Adjust cables and check the auger to make sure it is all in good working condition.

CAN YOU GET TO YOUR SNOW THROWER EASILY?

Don't make the mistake of putting your Snow Thrower in a building in the backyard that's going to be blocked with snow. Put it in an area that is easily accessible so you can use it when you need it quickly.

ARE YOU USING THE RIGHT FUEL?

My Dad is really good about teaching me how to do things, and one of those things is to make sure what type of fuel to use in my Snow Thrower. Make sure you know what you need to use.

NEVER ADD FUEL TO A RUNNING OR HOT ENGINE

Store your gas in a fuel container and label with the date you purchased it and the ethanol content. Make sure it is stored safely and out of the reach of kids.

CHARGE YOUR BATTERIES

If you have a battery powered or electric Snow Thrower, make sure you have this fully charged before a storm comes, in case of a power outage when you wouldn't be able to charge it.

DRESS PROPERLY

Wear safety glasses, gloves and boots that can handle slippery surfaces. It is NOT wise to wear scarves or anything that can dangle and get caught in your Snow Thrower.

MAKE SURE YOUR DRIVE IS FREE FROM OBSTRUCTIONS

Snow can hide lots of objects like doormats, rocks and debris. When a Snow Thrower runs them over, the thrower can throw these types of objects that can really hurt others, so check your drive and yard and make sure it's clear before you use your Snow Thrower on those areas.

NEVER  PUT YOUR HAND INSIDE THE AUGER OR CHUTE

If you need to clean it, make sure you turn off the Snow Thrower if you need to clear a clog, and wait for all moving parts to come to a complete halt.

For more information on safe use of Snow Throwers, click HERE now for more safety tips from Outdoor Power Equipment Institute.