Remember these simple tips to keep your family safe, while trying to keep your yard healthy and green.

• 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.

• Keep children out of the yard while mowing.

• Only use a mower with a control that stops the mower blade from moving if the handle is released.

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

• Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys, by cleaning up the yard before mowing.

• 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.

• Drive up and down slopes, not across to prevent mower rollover.

• Keep guards, shields, switches and safety devices in proper working order at all times.