Dixon ZTR 700 Series, Operator'S Manual

ACCIDENT PATTERNS TO AVOID

I. 

CONTACT WITH THE ROTATING 

BLADE -- This accident usually 

happens when the operator is clearing 

the discharge chute of grass, (especially 

when the grass is wet), or when the 

operator adjusts the machine without 

turning it off and waiting for the blades 

to completely stop.

II. 

PROPELLED OBJECTS - Sticks,

rocks, wires, and other objects can be 

propelled out through the discharge chute or 

from under the mower housing. Bystanders 

are particularly vulnerable.

III.         GRASS CATCHER OR GUARD - The 

mower shall not be operated without either 

the entire grass catcher or guard in place.

IV.        OVERTURNING - This happens when riding 

mowers are used on steep slopes, 

embankments or hills. The operator in 

these cases can come in contact with the 

blades or sustain injuries during a fall.

V. 

MOWER RUNNING OVER THE

VICTIM ~ This usually happens when a 

riding mower is driven in reverse. The 

accident victims are most often young 

children whom, unseen by the operator of 

the mower, were in the area being mowed.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND 

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. 

PEOPLE WHO OPERATE, SERVICE, 
OR ARE OTHERWISE ASSOCIATED

with the Zero Turning Radius Mower 

should be trained in its proper use and 

warned of its dangers. Before operating, 

adjusting, or servicing the Zero Turning 

Radius Mower they should read and 

understand this entire manual and the 

engine owner's manual.

2. 

AVOID CONTACT WITH MOVING 

PARTS. Keep hands and feet from 

under mowing deck and away from 

blades at all times. Turn engine (motor) 

off if you must unclog the chute.

3. 

AVOID HILLS AND SLOPES. Use

.extreme caution when mowing up or 

down slopes. NEVER mow across the 

face of a slope. If a slope must be 

ascended, back up the slope; drive 

forward when descending. Reduce ~ 

speed and use caution to start, stop and 

maneuver. To prevent loss of control on a 

slope avoid sharp turns, sudden changes 

in direction, and sudden stops and starts.

4. 

DISENGAGE POWER TO MOWER 

BEFORE BACKING UP. Do not mow 

in reverse unless ABSOLUTELY 

necessary and then only after turning 

around and observing the entire area 

behind the mower. Go slowly. Most 

"running over victim" accidents occur in 

reverse.

5. 

BEGINNING OPERATORS SHOULD 

LEARN HOW TO STEER the Zero 

Turning Radius Mower before 

attempting to mow. Start with slow 

engine speed and drive without the 

blades engaged in an open area until 

comfortable with the machine.

"6. 

KNOW HOW TO STOP QUICKLY. 

Know the location and operation of 

every control, especially how to brake 

and how to disengage the mower 

blades.

P-11408 (2/99)