Keep North Dakota Kids Safe This Summer: Lawn Mower Safety Tips Every Family Should Know

With summer in full swing across North Dakota, it’s time to tackle those overgrown lawns and keep our yards looking sharp. But before you fire up the mower, here's an eye-opening fact: over 9,000 children in the U.S. end up in emergency rooms each year due to lawn mower-related injuries. That’s a startling number—and one that’s often preventable with the right safety measures.

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Lawn Mower Safety: What Age Is Safe for Kids to Mow?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under the age of 12 should never operate a lawn mower. While kids aged 12 and up may safely handle a push mower, riding mowers should be reserved for teens at least 16 years old—and even then, only with proper supervision and good judgment.

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Here are a few smart safety tips to make sure your yardwork doesn’t end in a trip to the ER:

• Clear the yard before mowing. Remove toys, rocks, sticks, or anything that could become a dangerous projectile.
• Keep kids and pets indoors while the mower is in use. Even from a distance, debris can cause injury.
• Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Skip the flip flops—this is not the time for casual footwear.
• Protect your eyes and ears. Safety goggles and ear protection are a must for both kids and adults.
• Turn off the mower before you empty the grass catcher or make adjustments.
• Avoid mowing wet grass or mowing in bad weather. Slippery conditions can cause accidents.

Yardwork can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and teach responsibility—but only when done safely. Keep these tips in mind when you have your kids helping with yardwork. Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy your summer!