By Dr. Patrick Grace
University of Kentucky
As grass begins to grow and lawn care ramps up across Kentucky, it’s an important time to remind families that lawn mowers, while part of a familiar routine, can cause serious and sometimes life altering injuries if used improperly.
Each year in the United States, thousands of people are treated in emergency departments for lawn mower-related injuries, according to national injury surveillance data. These injuries range from cuts and burns to fractures and traumatic amputations, and children are among those most at risk.
A hidden danger in the backyard
Lawn mowers can propel blades at speeds fast enough to send rocks, sticks and debris flying at high velocity. For adults, many injuries occur while attempting to clear clogged or jammed mowers. For children, the risk is often being in the yard, or too close to the mower, while someone else is operating it.
There are reports that show large numbers of children are injured by lawn mowers each year, with the most severe injuries often involving riding mowers. Young children may be hit by debris, run into the mowing area unexpectedly or be hurt when a ride on mower is reversing. In some cases, injuries lead to permanent disability or amputation.
These injuries are largely preventable with proper safety steps and supervision.
Keep children indoors and away from mowing areas
One of the most important safety rules is also one of the simplest: keep children inside while mowing the lawn.
Children should never be passengers on riding mowers, even briefly. They can fall off or be tempted to jump down, placing them directly in harm’s way. Older children and teens who are learning to mow should be closely supervised and only use equipment appropriate for their age and size.
As a general rule:
• Children should be at least 12 years old to operate a walk behind mower.
• Children should be at least 16 years old to operate a riding mower.
Protect yourself before you mow
Adults are also at risk especially when basic precautions are overlooked. To reduce your chance of injury:
• Wear sturdy, closed toe shoes (never sandals or bare feet).
• Clear the yard of rocks, toys and debris before mowing.
• Use eye protection to guard against flying objects.
• Never reach into a mower with the engine running, even if the blades appear to have stopped.
• Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance or clearing clogs.
When using a riding mower, avoid mowing on steep slopes and mow up and down rather than across inclines to reduce the risk of rollovers.
Prevention makes the difference
Lawn mower injuries often happen quickly and unexpectedly, but safety habits dramatically reduce the risk.
Families should talk openly about mower safety, especially as children get older and express interest in helping with yard work.
If an injury does occur, seek medical care immediately, even for what may seem like a minor wound. Lawn mower injuries carry a high risk of infection and complications.
As spring turns into summer, taking a few extra minutes to prepare before mowing can help ensure that yard work doesn’t turn into a trip to the emergency room.
Dr. Patrick Grace, M.D., is medical director of Chandler Hospital Emergency Department.