Operating a riding or zero-turn mower may seem simple—but it only takes one misstep to cause serious injury or damage. From rollover accidents to deck fires, the risks are real. Fortunately, most mower mishaps are completely avoidable with a little awareness and the right habits.
Whether you're a homeowner or a professional landscaper, here are 7 mower safety mistakes you might be making—and how to fix them before they cost you.
Mowing Across Slopes Instead of Up and Down
One of the most common—and dangerous—mower mistakes is mowing across a hill instead of up and down. Riding mowers are top-heavy and prone to rollovers, especially on wet or uneven ground.
What to do instead:
- Mow up and down slopes, not across
- Keep the heavy end (engine) uphill on inclines
- Avoid sharp turns or sudden stops when mowing on a hill
Zero-turns especially should never mow on steep slopes unless the manufacturer approves it.
Skipping Proper PPE
Do you think earplugs and sunglasses are enough? Think again. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for mower safety.
What to wear:
- Safety glasses or a face shield to block flying debris
- Hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs)
- Gloves for grip and protection
- Steel-toed or sturdy boots (no sandals or sneakers!)
- Fitted clothing to avoid getting caught in moving parts
Avoid loose sleeves, jewelry, or headphones while operating any mower.
Not Cleaning the Mower Deck
Grass clippings and debris easily build up under the mower deck, around belts, and near the exhaust. Left unattended, this can lead to overheating, belt failure—or even a fire.
What to do:
- Clean under the deck after every mowing session
- Check for buildup around the engine, muffler, and belt area
- Use compressed air or a plastic scraper—never reach under a running mower!
A deck full of dry grass near a hot exhaust is a fire hazard waiting to happen.
Disabling Safety Features
Tempted to bypass your seat switch? Think again. Safety interlocks and guards are installed for a reason—to protect you.
Common (but dangerous) overrides:
- Disabling the seat switch so blades engage when no one’s seated
- Removing ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure) on tractors
- Bypassing blade shut-off interlocks
Transporting Unsafely
Trailering a mower seems straightforward—until it slides off the ramp or shifts mid-haul.
Safe transport checklist:
- Use a low-angle ramp with traction
- Load the mower with the heavy end uphill (usually rear)
- Secure with two ratchet straps in front and rear
- Check tire pressure before loading
- Never transport with fuel leaking or deck full of clippings
Refueling Too Soon
Refueling a hot mower engine is a common mistake that can lead to ignition or serious burns.
Fueling safety tips:
- Shut off the engine and let it cool for 10–15 minutes
- Refuel in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or heat sources
- Use a funnel or spill-proof nozzle
- Wipe up spills immediately
- Never smoke near fuel storage or during refueling
Complacency & Lack of Training
Overconfidence and lack of training are behind many mower injuries. Even seasoned operators can overlook basic checks or underestimate terrain hazards.
Best practices:
- Read the owner’s manual—yes, really
- Conduct pre-start checks: tires, oil, blades, safety features
- Understand your mower’s limitations, especially on slopes or near water
- Keep bystanders, pets, and children well clear during operation
Training isn’t just for commercial users—every mower operator benefits from a refresher.
Safety Recap Table
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Mowing across slopes | Mow up/down with engine uphill |
| Skipping PPE | Wear glasses, boots, ear/eye protection |
| Not cleaning deck | Remove debris after every mow |
| Disabling safety features | Repair or replace—never bypass |
| Unsafe transport | Use ramps, straps, load heavy end uphill |
| Refueling too soon | Cool engine 10+ minutes before refueling |
| Complacency/lack of training | Read manual, inspect mower, stay alert |
Quick Mower Safety Checklist
Before You Mow:
- Check tire pressure and fuel
- Clear yard of rocks, toys, debris
- Inspect blades, belts, and deck
- Verify safety switches and PTO
During Operation:
- Mow up/down slopes
- Wear proper PPE
- Keep hands/feet away from moving parts
- Be alert to terrain changes and obstacles
After Use:
- Clean mower deck
- Store in a dry, ventilated area
Report any issues or worn parts
Final Thoughts
Most mower accidents are preventable. By avoiding these seven common mistakes, you’ll not only protect yourself but also extend the life of your equipment. It’s a win-win for safety and performance.
Need a mower tune-up or new safety gear? Visit Louisiana Tractors and Mowers
