Children and lawnmowers are dangerous combination.  That’s why the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and other medical societies have offered several safety tips this year to help prevent lawnmower-related injuries.

When such injuries occur, it’s often a plastic surgeon that performs reconstructive surgery, hand surgery or wound care to restore form and function.

Safety Tips Courtesy of the ASPS Press Release

• Children should be at least 12-years-old before they operate any lawn mower, and at least 16- years-old for a ride-on mower.
• Children should never be passengers on ride-on mowers.
• Always wear sturdy shoes while mowing – not sandals.
• Young children should be at a safe distance from the area you are mowing.
• Pick up stones, toys and debris from the lawn to prevent injuries from flying objects.
• Always wear eye and hearing protection.
• Use a mower with a control that stops it from moving forward if the handle is released.
• Never pull backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary – carefully look for others behind you when you do.