Snow Thrower Safety Alert
 
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) wants you and your family to be safe when using snow throwers. Snow throwers are the fourth leading cause of finger amputations among consumer products. In a recent year, there were approximately 1,030 amputations involving snow throwers. CPSC estimates that each year on average there are approximately 5,320 hospital emergency room-treated injuries associated with snow throwers. CPSC has received reports of nine deaths since 1992 involving snow throwers. Two people died after becoming caught in the machine. More commonly, deaths are caused by carbon monoxide poisoning resulting from leaving the engine running in an enclosed area.
Injuries most frequently occurred when consumers tried to clear the auger/collector or discharge chute with their hands.
CPSC offers the following safety tips for using snow throwers:

• Stop the engine and use a long stick to unclog wet snow and debris from the machine. Do not use your hands to unclog a snow thrower.
• Always keep hands and feet away from all moving parts.
• Never leave the machine unattended if the engine is operating. Shut down the engine if you must leave the machine for any length of time.
• Never leave the machine running in an enclosed area.
• Add fuel to the tank outdoors before starting the machine; don't add gasoline to a running or hot engine. Always keep the gasoline can capped, and store gasoline out of the house and away from ignition sources.
• If you have an electric-powered snow thrower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times.