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Inside
Story

 

by Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance

 

 

 

 

teenage girl bucking seat belt
flowrist picking flower from garden
men grilling food and smiling
indiana farm bureau insurance agent with desk
Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 

 

Mar 14, 2025

Lawnmower and chainsaw safety tips

Man in lawn mower safety gear checks lawn mower

 

Old Man Winter is loosening his grip on Indiana, and it is time to think about yard maintenance. With warmer weather approaching, it’s a good time to refresh your memory on the safety measures to follow when using your lawn equipment. The University of Iowa Health Care site provides some excellent lawnmower safety tips you should consider before getting on your riding mower or pulling the cord on your push mower. 

 

  • Read and follow the safety instructions provided in the owner’s manuals 

  • Keep an eye out for children and pets while mowing 

  • Always use eye and ear protection when operating lawn equipment 

  • Fill your gas tank only when the engine is cold. 

  • Drive your riding mower up and down slopes or hills. Driving across may result in a mower rollover. 

  • Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants while mowing.  

  • Pick up sticks, stones, toys and trash before you begin mowing. If you fail to do so, these objects might become projectiles that can injure people or cause property damage. 

  • Keep your lawnmower in good working order. Ideally, your mower should be serviced each mowing season. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides essential chainsaw safety tips in an easy-to-read document. You don’t have to be on a jobsite to follow OSHA safety standards!  

 

  • Read the manual and check controls, bolts, and chain tension before starting your chainsaw. 

  • Start the chainsaw on the ground or on another firm surface.  

  • Start the chainsaw at least 10 feet away from the fueling source to reduce the risk of fire. 

  • Clear away dirt, debris and rocks before cutting. Also be sure to look for nails or spikes in the tree before you begin. 

  • Do not wear loose fitting clothing.  

  • Wear proper protective equipment for your hands, feet, legs, eyes, face, ears and head. 

  • Keep your hands on the saw’s handles at all times and maintain good balance. 

  • Watch for branches under tension. They may spring unexpectedly when cut. 

 

Following these tips will help you avoid risks associated with these tools and allow you to stay on top of lawncare duties all spring.  

 

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.  
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