Snowblowers can make winter wonderlands much more manageable. They can however be dangerous, especially when the user tries to clear the auger/collector or discharge chute with their hands. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute has provided the following review of proper safety and storage techniques.
Let's be clear - Snow covers things on your walkway, but it is essential to remove doormats, sleds, boards, wires and anything else that may be in the way of your moving blower. Move children and pets out of the way. Make sure your hands are free, do not smoke when operating. Do not operate when under the influence of alcohol or any other mind-altering substance.
Just stop it - Never attempt to do anything the least bit invasive - clean, adjust, repair or inspect - before you stop the engine, remove the key from the switch and wait for all moving parts to stop. This includes before attempting to unclog the discharge chute.
Speaking of the chute - Never put your hands inside the snow-blower chute - for any reason. If it is clogged, turn the blower off and then clear the chute with a stick, some blowers come with this for express cleaning purposes.
Dress for success - Wear boots with good traction. Do not wear loose clothing such as scarves that could fly and be drawn into the auger or the impeller while you're operating. Protective goggles also should be worn.
Stow it - When storing the snowblower for more than 30 days, drain the fuel from the tank to make starting it back up again easier. And always remove the key from the ignition switch for storage.
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Snowblowers can make winter wonderlands much more manageable. They can however be dangerous, especially when the user tries to clear the auger/collector or discharge chute with their hands. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute has provided the following review of proper safety and storage techniques.
Let's be clear - Snow covers things on your walkway, but it is essential to remove doormats, sleds, boards, wires and anything else that may be in the way of your moving blower. Move children and pets out of the way. Make sure your hands are free, do not smoke when operating. Do not operate when under the influence of alcohol or any other mind-altering substance.
Just stop it - Never attempt to do anything the least bit invasive - clean, adjust, repair or inspect - before you stop the engine, remove the key from the switch and wait for all moving parts to stop. This includes before attempting to unclog the discharge chute.
Speaking of the chute - Never put your hands inside the snow-blower chute - for any reason. If it is clogged, turn the blower off and then clear the chute with a stick, some blowers come with this for express cleaning purposes.
Dress for success - Wear boots with good traction. Do not wear loose clothing such as scarves that could fly and be drawn into the auger or the impeller while you're operating. Protective goggles also should be worn.
Stow it - When storing the snowblower for more than 30 days, drain the fuel from the tank to make starting it back up again easier. And always remove the key from the ignition switch for storage.
