Dixon 539 132250 User Manual

4

SAFETY

THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OB-
JECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERI-
OUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Read, understand and follow all instructions in 
the manual and on the machine before starting.

• 

Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar 
with the instructions, to operate the machine.

• 

Clear the area of objects such as rocks, stones, 
toys, wire etc., which could be picked up and 
thrown by the blades.

• 

Be sure the area is clear of all people and pets 
before mowing. Stop the machine if anyone 
enters the area.

• 

Never carry passengers or children even with 
blades off.

• 

Do not  mow in reverse unless absolutely 
necessary. Always look down and behind before 
and while backing.

• 

Be aware of the mower discharge direction and 
do not direct it towards anyone. Do not operate 
the mower without either the entire grass 
catcher or the guard in place.

• 

Slow down before turning.

• 

Never leave the machine unattended when the 
engine is running. Always turn off the blades, set 
the parking brake, stop the engine and remove  
the key before leaving the machine.

• 

Turn off blades when not mowing.

• 

Stop engine before removing grass catcher or 
unclogging chute.

• 

Mow only in daylight or good artifi cial light.

• 

Do not operate the machine while under the 
infl uence of alcohol or drugs.

• 

Watch out for traffi c when operating near or 
crossing roadways.

• 

Use extra care when loading and unloading the 
machine onto a trailer or truck.

• 

Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and 
above, are involved in a large percentage of 
riding mower-related injuries. These operators 
should evaluate their ability to operate the riding 
mower safely enough to protect themselves and 
others from serious injury.

• 

DO NOT operate mower with grass catcher, 
unless the front weights are installed.

Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other 
debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust/
engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower 
deck to plow leaves or other debris which can 
cause buildup to occur. Clean any oil or fuel 
spillage before operating or storing the machine. 
Allow machine to cool before storage.

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control 
and tipover accidents, which can result in severe 
injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If 
you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy 
on it, do not mow it.

• 

Mow up and down slopes (10° Max.), not across.

• 

Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, 
etc.

• 

Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain 
could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide 
obstacles.

Use slow speed. Choose a low speed so that 
you will not have to stop while on the slope.

• 

Use extra care with grass catchers or other 
attachments. These can change the stability of 
the machine.

• 

Keep all movement on the slopes slow and 
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed 
or direction.

• 

Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires 
lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed 
slowly straight down the slope.