Expert Pediatric Guidance on Safe Lawn Mower Use for Children

Lawn maintenance is a typical household chore, but it carries significant safety risks, especially for children. Understanding these risks and implementing appropriate safety measures is crucial to prevent injuries. Children can be exposed to dangers whether they are operating the mower, nearby during mowing, or simply in the vicinity.

Power lawn mowers are among the most hazardous tools around homes. Annually, over 10,000 children are treated in emergency departments for injuries caused by lawnmowers, which can result in deep cuts, finger and toe losses, broken bones, burns, and eye injuries from flying debris. Fortunately, most accidents are preventable with proper precautions.

Before assigning mowing tasks to children, evaluate their maturity, judgment, strength, and coordination. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should be at least 12 years old to operate a walk-behind mower and at least 16 for riding or ride-on mowers. If a child is deemed ready, parents should teach them proper operation techniques, supervise their work until confident, or keep them indoors or at a safe distance during mowing sessions.

Choosing the right mower with safety features is vital. Look for models that have a control mechanism to stop the blades and movement when the handle is released, reducing accidental injuries. Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation and maintenance. Ensure all safety guards and shields are in place, and only adults should handle adjustments or repairs, disconnecting the spark plug before maintenance.

Protective gear such as eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy shoes covering toes should be worn by everyone operating a mower. To keep everyone safe, avoid common mowing errors: stay alert and watch for children or obstacles, clear the lawn of debris like stones and toys that could become projectiles, and stop the mower immediately if it hits an object to inspect for damage.

Outdoor conditions play a role in mowing safety. Never mow in bad weather, during thunderstorms, in low light, or on wet grass, which can cause slips. When mowing slopes, mow across the face of the slope with a walk-behind mower to prevent slipping, and mow up and down with ride-on mowers to avoid tipping. Reversing should be minimized, and extra caution exercised when doing so.

By adhering to these safety guidelines, families can significantly reduce the risk of injuries and make lawn mowing a safer, more manageable task. Educating children about proper mower use, setting age-appropriate limits, and supervising them adequately are key steps. Planning and vigilance are essential to ensure that lawn care remains a safe activity for all household members.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-pediatrician-advice-lawn-mower-safety.html