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Keep Safety in Mind While Doing Yardwork

Before you begin trimming, pruning and mowing your own corner of paradise, it’s important to consider the safety precautions that can help you prevent injury to yourself or others. Follow these top tips to avoid potential hazards while making your yard the envy of the neighborhood.

STIHL BGA 60 blower with accessories

Before You Start

  • Before using outdoor power equipment, read your instruction manual.

  • Inspect your equipment before use. If you find a problem, visit an authorized full-line STIHL servicing Dealer to get it fixed.

  • When mixing fuel, use fresh fuel or try a premixed fuel like STIHL MotoMix®.

  • Assess your yard for any items that could cause damage if they get caught in a motor or cutting attachment.

  • Keep an eye out for poisonous plants in your yard.

  • Make sure bystanders, kids and pets are at least 50 feet away.

Protect Yourself

  • Even for quick outdoor jobs, protect your skin with sunscreen, a hat and bug spray.

  • Be sure to wear protective glasses, hearing protection and gloves to help make outdoor work safer and more comfortable.

  • Protect your feet with rough-tread, water-resistant shoes.

  • Never operate a chainsaw without wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment.

  • Always be aware of your working conditions and how they can contribute to the most common chainsaw reactive forces: kickback, pushback and pull-in.

  • Shop for STIHL chainsaw protective chaps.

Washing Instructions for Personal Protective Equipment

  • Not suitable for tumble dryers
  • Do not bleach, dry clean or iron with hot iron
  • Wash in 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Farenheit)

Before Washing:

  • Wash with similar colors
  • Only use mild detergent and do not use fabric softener
  • Close hook-and-loop fasteners and zips

Choose the Right Tool for the Right Task

  • Determine your needs before you head out to the nearest store to buy a new piece of equipment. Visit our buying guides to help you decide.

  • Consult with an authorized full-line STIHL servicing Dealer before making a big spend. They will help you figure out how much power you really need to complete your yard tasks.

Don’t Forget Fido

Assess your property for these hidden safety risks for your pets:

  • The chocolate scent of cocoa mulch is enticing, but if ingested it can be deadly.

  • Fertilizers and plant food chemicals can also be poisonous; use those wisely.

  • Some of the most popular plants are poisonous to pets. Check this Humane Society list before selecting new plants.

Professional putting STIHL BR 450 backpack blower on back of truck

When to Call a Pro

Some jobs are better left to the pros. Pick up the phone when:

  • You’re nervous about tackling a big yard job.

  • You need to prune a tree or cut a limb that would require leaving the ground or getting close to power lines.

  • You want to tackle a hardscaping project that could involve hours of tough labor that’s hard on backs and knees.

  • Visit Love Your Landscape to find a qualified pro in your area.