Snowblower accidents are responsible for many severe injuries every year, including loss of fingers and toes, deep cuts, burns, crushed and broken bones.

Injuries occur to all age groups. Here are some basic tips to make sure you are not among them!

Basic Safety Tips

·    Always read the manual and know all safety features of your particular model.

·    Know the operating procedures

·    Make sure all safety guides, shields or switch guards are in place.

·    Keep hands and feet away from any moving parts and

·    Keep children and pets at a safe distance as snowblowers can pick up and propel small objects a long way at a high speed.

·    Always shut off the engine completely when not attending the snowblower.

·    Fill up the gas tank when the engine is cold, never when it is running or hot.

·    Do not wear loose clothes as they can easily become tangled in moving parts.

·    Wear ear protectors when operating the snow blower

·    Do not use your hands to clear the auger or discharge chute.

·    Never run the snowblower in an enclosed space.

·    Store gasoline in approved cans only in a safe place

·    For electric snowblowers care must be taken to keep the cord away from the moving parts.

·    Always use a cord designed for outdoor use and an outlet that has ground fault interrupting protection.

·    Always do a thorough check of your machine at the start of the winter, before the first snow.

·    Check the oil level and spark plug regularly and change the oil at least once a year.

·    Check the cord on an electric snowblower. Make sure it is not frayed or damaged, replace if necessary.