RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
4
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE OPERATING
• Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the
controls and proper use of the unit.
• Do not operate this unit when tired, ill, or under the
influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
• Children and teens under the age of 15 must not use
the unit, except for teens guided by an adult.
• All guards and safety attachments must be installed
properly before operating the unit.
• Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts.
Check for fuel leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in
place and secure. Replace parts that are cracked,
chipped, or damaged in any way. Do not operate the
unit with loose or damaged parts.
• Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit.
Remove all debris and hard or sharp objects such
as glass, wire, etc.
• Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets.
At a minimum, keep all children, bystanders and pets
outside a 50 feet (15 m.) radius; there still may be a
risk to bystanders from thrown objects. Bystanders
should be encouraged to wear eye protection. If you
are approached, stop the unit immediately.
SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS UNITS
WARNING:
Gasoline is highly flammable, and its vapors
can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:
• Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and
approved for the storage of such materials.
• Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do
not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.
• Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before
filling the fuel tank. Never remove the cap of the fuel
tank, or add fuel, when the engine is hot. Never
operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.
Loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure
in the tank.
• Mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated area
outdoors where there are no sparks or flames. Slowly
remove the fuel cap only after stopping engine. Do not
smoke while fueling or mixing fuel. Wipe up any spilled
fuel from the unit immediately.
• Move the unit at least 30 feet (9.1 m) from the fueling
source and site before starting the engine. Do not
smoke, keep sparks and open flames from the area
while adding fuel or operating the unit.
• IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION •
WHILE OPERATING
• Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or
building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Operate
this unit only in a well ventilated area outdoors.
• To reduce the risk of injury associated with thrown
objects, wear safety glasses or goggles that are
marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards,
• To reduce the risk of hearing loss associated with
sound level(s), always wear ear/hearing protection
when operating this unit.
• Wear heavy, long pants, boots and gloves. Do not
wear, short pants, sandals or go barefoot.
• To avoid static electricity shock, do not wear rubber
gloves or any other insulated gloves while operating
this unit.
• To reduce the risk of injury associated with objects
being drawn into rotating parts, do not wear loose
clothing, jewelry, scarves, and the like. Secure hair
above shoulder level.
• Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.
Long sleeve shirts are recommended.
• Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Keep outside surfaces free from oil and fuel.
• Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position
whenever pulling the starter rope. The operator and
unit must be in a stable position while starting. See
Starting/Stopping Instructions.
• Do not set unit on any surface except a clean, hard
area while engine is running. Debris such as gravel,
sand, dust, grass, etc. could be picked up by the air
intake and thrown out by the discharge opening,
damaging unit, property, or causing serious injury to
bystanders or operator.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose
intended.
• Do not force unit. It will do the job better and with less
likelihood of injury at a rate for which it was designed.
• Do not overreach or use from unstable surfaces such
as ladders, trees, steep slopes, rooftops, etc. Always
keep proper footing and balance.
• Always hold the unit with a firm grip when operating.
• Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all
moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop the impeller
when it is rotating. Do not operate without guards in
place.