From the first flake of snow to the last, families rely on snowblowers all winter to keep their driveways and pathways clear of snow buildup. These powerful machines have helped to simplify the task of yard maintenance and cut down hours of manual snow shoveling. While their efficiency is much appreciated, their power can also be dangerous for individuals who don't know how to operate the machinery properly or don't heed common safety precautions. Each year thousands of individuals, including children, are injured or killed from improper snowblower use. If your family plans to use a snowblower this winter, please consider the hazard risks and safety precautions listed below to keep you and yours safe from harm.
Hazard Risks
The mechanics of a snowblower are fairly simple: the machine transfers snow from one area and deposits it in another by use of a high powered rotor or auger. When the machine is operating, it flings snow and other small debris that gets caught in the mechanism, which could hit passersby or children playing nearby. The most common risk of injury occurs when a larger piece of debris gets caught in the rotor or auger and stop its motion. The debris must be dislodged to continue operating, so many people make the mistake of sticking a hand or foot near the rotating parts to dislodge the debris. Even if the machine has been turned off and the spark plug removed, the rotor or auger may still be under high torque, which could cause it to spin and cut anything in its way immediately after the debris is dislodged.
Safety Precautions
When using a snowblower, remember that you are operating a piece of heavy machinery that is capable of inflicting life-threatening injuries. Consider the following safety steps to help minimize the risk of injury to yourself and others:
Never insert a hand, foot, or other body part into the machine to dislodge debris, even if the equipment has been turned off. Use a stick, broom handle, or other expendable object instead.
When moving the snowblower, never pick the machine up by the underside where the rotor or auger is located. Even when not in use the sharp edges can cause severe injury to your hands.
Wear protective goggles to protect your eyes from debris and gloves to guard against blisters.
Wear slip-resistant snow boots to reduce your risk of falling under the machine or losing control during operation.
Clear a large area before operating the snowblower. Remove any visible debris from the ground that could be flung out of the machine or get caught underneath.
Warn your children of the safety risks of snowblowers and do not let them play around the snowblower when it is in use.
These safety tips can help to reduce your risk of snowblower injury, but may not eliminate the risk altogether. Mechanical defects or negligent use by another can cause significant injury even when you take safety precautions. In these cases, the equipment manufacturer or negligent operator may be liable for an accident and you may be entitled to compensation for injuries and damages.
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