Facts about Lawn Mower Accidents

Although a common household chore, it’s important to remember a power mower can cause serious injuries to your feet. At Pasco Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know the hotter it gets, the faster the grass grows, and the more often it needs to be mowed. Here are a few important facts and reminders about mower safety.

Risky Business

The lawnmower blades turn at 3,000 revolutions per minute, producing three times the kinetic energy of a .357 handgun. The kind of power that can easily sever tendons, amputate toes, and create a pretty nasty laceration filled with dirt and yard debris. Often, however, the people doing the mowing don’t seem to take this potential threat seriously. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons statistics, 86,000 adults and 4,500 children in the U.S. were treated in emergency rooms for lawn mower-related injuries in 2016. Studies show those most frequently injured by mowers are adults over the age of 44 and children under 14.

Safety Tips

There are several ways to reduce the risk of a lawnmower injury. These include:

• Get your lawnmower inspected and serviced annually to detect any parts that may be malfunctioning or worn out.

• Don’t mow your lawn if you’re very tired or not feeling well—you’re more likely to have poor judgment and want to shortcut the job.

• Always wear heavy shoes when mowing. Sneakers are no match for mower blades, and of course, it goes without saying that going barefoot and wearing flip-flops is never a good choice for yard work.

• Never let children or grandchildren ride on a mower with you. In fact, it’s important to teach children not to try to approach or get your attention when you are mowing. Instruct them never to touch the lawnmower—even turned off sharp blades can still cause injuries.

• Don’t mow your lawn when it’s wet. The number one cause of losing control of a mower is wet, slippery grass.

If you sustain an injury from a power mower, even a minor cut, stop immediately and treat it. Clean a cut thoroughly and apply antibacterial ointment and a bandage. If the area gets red and hot, contact our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 so our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can examine the wound and make sure it’s not becoming infected.