The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these tips for safe lawn mowing this summer:

• Try to use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward if the handle is let go.

• Children younger than 16 years should not be allowed to use ride-on mowers. Children younger than 12 years should not use walk-behind mowers.

• Make sure that sturdy shoes (not sandals or sneakers) are worn while mowing.

• Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys, by picking up objects from the lawn before mowing begins. Have anyone who uses a mower wear hearing and eye protection.

• Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and carefully look for children behind you when you mow in reverse.

• Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute or crossing gravel paths, roads, or other areas.

• Do not allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers.

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