It is that time of year where the grass needs mowing and depending on the age of your kids, they either love to help or they hate it. I have found that the kids who love it are usually too young to be doing it safely and the kids who are old enough to show good judgement, don't want any part of the weekly routine. Here are a few saftey tips to keep in mind when allowing your child to mow the lawn. Keep in mind that the lawn mower is one of summer's most dangerous tools.

1. Use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward as soon as the handle is released.

2. Children under 16 should not be using a riding lawnmower and children under 12 should not be using a walk-behind mower.

3. Mow with sturdy shoes, not flip flops or tennies. Please! I have seen way too many bloody toes.

4. Pick up the yard first, then mow. This helps prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys.

5. Using a collection bag for grass clippings and safety goggles also helps prevent eye injuries from flying objects if they are available. I know, not cool looking but oh so much safer.

6. Make sure small children are inside or at a safe distance from the older child or adult running the mower. Always encourage children to avoid approaching a running mower because the person mowing may not see a child coming close.

7. Start the mower outside and not in a shed or garage. That goes for refueling too.

8. Make sure that an adult does the blade adjustment and cleaning or unclogging, and make sure the mower is off.

9. Special care should be taken when going in reverse on a riding mower and when pulling back on a push mower. Feet injuries happen very quickly in the reverse mode.

10. Always look around for small children or pets. Paying attention to your surroundings goes along way to preventing injuries.

11. Children should not mow hills or rough terrain to avoid tipping over on a riding mower and to avoid feet and back injuries with a push mower.

12. Don't allow passengers on a riding mower while the blades are engaged, especially when youth are driving. That is not to say grandpa can't give the kids a ride when the mowing is finished and the blades are stopped. I am not here to put a kabosh on that kind of bonding. Just be careful and only allow adults to do the driving in that instance.

Finally, an adult should be available at all times for assistance or emergencies. These recommendations come from the American Academy of Pediatrics. I will be writing more articles for summer safety based on their recommendations. Or visit www.aap.org for more information. HAPPY MOWING!

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