Smart Mowing Moves Pick up sticks. Cool fuel. Take time to scan the mowing area for rocks, toys, glass, wires, branches, or other objects. Cool fuel. Fill the gas tank before starting the engine at the beginning of the mowing. Do not refuel when the engine is on or hot. Know which way to go. If you're using a riding mower, mow up and down slopes rather than across, to minimize your chances of tipping over. If you're using a push mower, mow across a slope so the mower doesn't slide or fall on top of you. Dump the grass. Empty the grass-catcher bag when it's half full to avoid grass buildup. Hear no evil. If you've got a noisy machine, make sure to mow with hearing protection. Mow it alone. Keep children away. One out of five fatalities from riding mowers is a child. Smart Mowing Moves Source: www.clarian.org