Get Ready for Mower Season

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At Texas Foot Specialists we know that when spring arrives it brings a big threat to foot safety for our patients: lawn mowers. Although many of the tips to prevent mower accidents may seem like common sense, they bear repeating. Recent statistics show that over 77,000 lawn mower injuries occur each year. Unfortunately, many of the most serious ones that require hospitalization and amputation occur in children. Below are some mower safety reminders:

  • Inspect and service your mower annually. Make sure it is functioning properly and that there are no broken parts. Have your mower serviced professionally or follow the instruction guide carefully. Blades are sharp even when the mower is not turned on.

  • Wear appropriate shoes. Never mow while barefoot or wearing flip-flops. Even sneakers won’t provide protection for blades whirling at 3,000 rotations per minute. Heavy work boots or other sturdy shoes are the best bet.

  • Never mow a wet lawn. Slippery grass causes mowers to slide and this is the number one cause of foot injuries.

  • Set firm rules with children. It’s best for children to stay indoors while you mow the lawn. If they are outside, instruct them never to approach the mower while you’re using it.

  • Don’t mow in reverse. Although many mowers are equipped with a reverse feature, it is unsafe because it doesn’t require you to turn and look behind you. It’s easy for children to come up from behind without you being able to hear them over the noise of the mower.

  • Pick up the lawn before mowing. Sticks, rocks, and other objects can become harmful projectiles if they get shot out from under the mower and can injure someone close by.

Even minor cuts and lacerations to the foot can be serious. Be sure to clean out any wounds thoroughly and bandage. If you have any concerns about a foot or ankle injury, don’t hesitate to contact our Sugar Land 281-242-4448, Pasadena 281-991-0600 or Houston 713-664-6677offices so our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum, can examine you and evaluate the severity of your injury.