Snapper CP215518HV, Safety Instructions & Operator'S Manual

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 

WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that 
can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious 
injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions 
and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating 
the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which 
might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your 
dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, 
McDonough, Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967). 
 

PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN 

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to 
the presence of children. Children are often attracted to 
the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume 
that children will remain where you last saw them. 

1.   KEEP children out of the mowing area and under 

the watchful care of a responsible adult other than 
the operator. 

2.   DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is 

operated and turn machine OFF if anyone enters 
the area.

3.   DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate 

machine.

4.   ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagers with 

mature judgment under close adult supervision to 
operate machine.

5.   DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely 

necessary. LOOK and SEE behind and down for 
children, pets and hazards before and while 
backing.

6. 

 USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind 

corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may 
obscure vision.

SLOPE OPERATION

1.   Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall 

accidents, which can result in severe injury. All 
slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on 
a slope, DO NOT mow it. 

2.   Mow across slopes, never up-and-down. Exercise 

extreme CAUTION when changing directions on 
slopes. DO NOT mow steep slopes or other areas 
where stability or traction is in doubt. 

3. 

 Use extra care with grass catchers or other 

attachments; these affect the handling and the 
stability of the machine.

PREPARATION

1. 

 Read, understand, and follow instructions and 

warnings in this manual and on the mower, engine 
and attachments. Know the controls and the 
proper use of the mower before starting. 

2.   Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the 

machine and only after proper instruction. 

PREPARATION

(Continued From Previous Column) 

3.   Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are 

involved in a large percentage of mower-related 
injuries. These operators should evaluate their 
ability to operate the mower safely enough to 
protect themselves and others from serious injury. 

4.   Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable 

and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved 
fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel 
with engine running. Add fuel outdoors only with 
engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil 
from machine. DO NOT smoke.  

5.  Check the area to be mowed and remove all 

objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other 
objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade 
or interfere with mowing. Also note the location of 
holes, stumps, and other possible hazards.

6.   Keep people and pets out of the mowing area. 

Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop 
mower if anyone enters the area.

7.   Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls 

and other safety devices frequently for proper 
operation and location.

8.   Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. 

Replace if damaged.

9.   Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety 

glasses, long pants and substantial footwear. DO 
NOT mow barefooted or with sandals.

10.  Know how to STOP blade and engine quickly in 

preparation for emergencies.

11.  Use extra care when loading or unloading the 

machine into a trailer or truck.

12.  Check grass catcher components frequently for 

signs of wear or deterioration and replace as 
needed to prevent injury from thrown objects 
going through weak or torn spots.

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE 

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use 
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is 
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive 
1.  Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other 

sources of ignition. 

2.  Use only an approved fuel container.