Dixon ZTR 503, Operator'S Manual

SAFETY  

RIDING LAWNMOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED. CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.

The following examples are the most common causes of injury to the operator or 

bystander.

1. BLADE CONTACT: The operator or bystander inserts a hand or foot into the

discharge chute or under the mower deck and into the path of the cutting

blade.

Never run the mower blades when there are people nearby.

Always turn the engine off when cleaning or working around the mower deck.

2. RUN-OVER: This situation occurs when a bystander is run-over or backed over by the 

"mower  The most frequently cited examples are with small children who wander 

into or are allowed to play, in an area where the mower is being operated.

Never run the mower blades when there are people nearby, especially children. 

Young children should be indoors and watched by an adult. Always look behind 

you before backing up.

3. TIP-OVER: This occurs when the mower tips over, usually sideways or to the rear. 

This situation is due to operation of the mower on steep inclines or near a drop 

off.

Mow across the slope to slightly uphill.

Mow slopes when the grass is dry and watch for bumps, holes and other 

obstacles.

Test the slope with the blades off. A good rule of thumb is "Don't mow on a 

slope you can't back up". Stay clear of drop-offs, especially if they are on the 

down side of a slope.

4. THROWN OBJECTS: The fast spinning mower deck blade can strike stones or other 

objects which can be hurled into the path of a bystander. To prevent this from 

happening, never remove the safety discharge chute from the mower deck, or 

operate the mower when other people are around.

5- FIRES: Most accidents of this type occur during re-fueling of the mower or placing 

the mower in a storage situation. The exhaust system and related engine 

components operate at very high temperatures which can ignite any fuel spilled 

on or near them. Always allow the mower to cool before re-fueling or placing in 

storage.

6. OPERATION BY CHILDREN: This mower is not a toy or recreational vehicle.

Never allow children to operate the mower in any manner or to ride as a 

passenger.

NOTE:     .The six examples are the most frequently cited injury causing situations. 

Please review all the safety precautions outlined on the following pages prior 

to operation of the mower. Our aim is to enhance the safe and satisfactory use 

of this product.