Snow throwers like the Greenworks 26032 are usually very safe tools when operated properly according to the manufacturers guidance and using a little common sense. However, we all know that the saying ‘There is nothing common about common sense’ often reigns true so I have put together a list of important safety tips that you need to think about when using an electric snow thrower.
General Snow Thrower Safety
• If you are transporting a snow thrower anywhere, make sure if is correctly secured so that there is no danger of it becoming dangerous to other people
• Make sure that the snow thrower has been stored correctly; somewhere that is dry and secure so that no one else can use it.
• Make sure that the snow blower is free of any loose material before you use it and that it is dry and clean so it can’t slip out of your grasp.
• Make sure the surface that you use an electric snow thrower on is not loose material as this can be stuck within the machine or alternatively can fly out and hit someone in the vicinity.
• Never leave it switched on when not in attendance.
• Only ever use a snow blower or thrower for the purpose it was intended.
• If you feel your Greenworks snow thrower vibrating or if you hit an object like a large stone turn the power off immediately and once all the moving parts have stopped, check the machine for any visible signs of damage.
• If you need any replacement parts always speak to an authorized dealer and only use proper parts. Always use a qualified person to change the parts for you and complete maintenance on your snow thrower.
Where To Use A Snow Thrower And Things To Check Before Use
Before using a snow thrower or any piece of machinery for that matter, you should make a plan of action on how you want to achieve your goals and survey the lie of the land so you can clear the snow in the most efficient way possible.
For example, if you have to clear the snow on a sloped area then never work across the slope but go up and down it in a regular motion taking care when you have to alter your course. That being said, if the slope is too severe, do not use a snow thrower on it. Never try to use this tool on a roof and never use it in the dark!
Make sure that you ‘throw’ the snow to a suitable place. Never ever blow the snow near a road or by any sort of traffic – vehicular or pedestrian. Make sure that there are no animals or children in the vicinity and that you move all cars away from the area you are about to clear. Utilize the adjustable discharge funnel to alter the angle in which you move the snow.
When you have checked out the area that you are going to clear and you have formulated a proper plan of action you need to think about personal protective equipment (PPE). The two main items are high impact goggles or safety glasses in case anything spits out of the machine towards your face, and ear protection so you do not get tinnitus. Both items are widely available at your local hardware shop. It is important that you wrap up warm and protect your outer features such as nose and fingers so that you do not get frostbite. Being warm and comfortable will make your experience a little easier.
Now you have thought about your personal safety, prepare to start the machine but make sure nothing else is in contact with it before you start her up! Make sure you are in a stable position and that you and the snow thrower are on stable ground.
Tips For Operating A Snow Thrower
When using the snow thrower never rush or overreach so that you become unbalanced. You should always walk at a comfortable pace rather than running. Stay focussed on what you are doing and always try to be aware of the terrain you are working on so that you don’t fall into any holes or other hazards. Try to go at a steady pace and not overload the blower too much otherwise it may malfunction. Use the snow thrower as it was designed and allow it to travel along the surface – never pick it up whilst it is still running and connected to the mains. Keep a good firm grip on the handles and never put any body parts near moving parts of the machinery.
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Take Care Around Moving Parts!
• If the protective elements of the machinery are not in place DO NOT use the snow thrower.
• Keep all body parts and clothing away from all moving parts at all times
• Always keep the impeller clear of any kind of debris but only do so once the machine is unplugged from the mains.
• Always stop the motor when not clearing snow.
• If the parts of your snow thrower get frozen up, make sure it is totally unfrozen before carrying on.
What To Do When You Have Cleared The Snow
When you have cleared the snow, leave the machine on for a minute or two to make sure everything is out of the system and has no chance of blocking it internally or freezing up otherwise next time you come to use it, it may be damaged or unusable.
Take the time to store your snow thrower correctly; somewhere that is dry and relatively warm so it doesn’t freeze, and equally, somewhere that is safe and secure so that no unauthorized people can get to it and use it.