lawn mowing injuries sent more than 16,000 children and adults to the hospital emergency room each year, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
To prevent such injuries, the American Academy of Pediatrics offers some tips to help keep kids safe this summer.
First, experts recommend children should be at least 12 years old before mowing the lawn themselves.
Always wear sturdy shoes, rather than sandals or flip-flops.
Pick up stones and toys to prevent injuries from flying objects.
Never pull a mower backwards unless it is absolutely necessary, and you have looked behind you to make sure no one is there.
Use a using a mower with a control that stops it from moving forward if the handle is released.
The AAP also recommends starting and refueling mowers outside, rather than inside, a garage.
