Snowblower Safety Tips

Snowblowers allow the user to clear huge amounts of snow from their driveway or sidewalk quickly and almost effortlessly. However, an improperly used snowblower can prove a danger to the operator and others, just like any other piece of equipment. That’s why the experts at Dutchess Recreational Vehicles have created this snowblower safety guide. 

Read the Manual

Your owner’s manual is an invaluable resource when it comes to maintaining and safely using your snowblower. Be sure to read the relevant passages in their entirety before attempting to use the snowblower. Any and all safety rules outlined in the owner’s manual must be followed to the letter. 

Dress Appropriately

Appropriate attire is important when operating a snowblower. Tight-fitting clothing will not only help you keep warm, but it’s also less likely to get caught in the machine. Gloves are also a must, as they’ll help protect your hands from more than just the cold. 

Clear the Area

Snowblowers are designed to blow snow, and nothing else. Any rocks, branches, or other debris that get caught up in the machine can result in injury to you or damage to your snowblower. That’s why you should always take the time to clear the area before taking a pass with your blower. 

Use the Correct Fuel

If you’re not mechanically inclined, the difference between the various octane ratings may be lost on you. In the simplest terms, certain fuel types can actually damage your snowblower or even cause a fire! Luckily, your owner’s manual should be able to tell you which fuel types are safe and which aren’t.

Turn off the Engine

Too often, a snowblower user has been injured because they made the simple mistake of forgetting to turn off the engine before they made an adjustment or cleared a clog. If you do get a clog, always switch the blower off and wait for everything to come to a complete stop before trying to fix it.  

Use Caution on Slopes

Even the very lightest and smallest of snowblowers can weigh about 25 Lbs. That’s why snowblower operators need to be cautious when operating on a slope. Keep your hands firmly on the handles and take it slow. Any sudden turns you make while on a slope could result in disaster. 

Keep Others Away

Snowblowers are tools, not toys. Make sure that everyone who’s not operating the snowblower gives it a wide berth. This is especially true of children and pets, who might try to play with or on the snowblower if not properly supervised. 

For more about snowblower safety or to view our inventory of snowblowers for sale, visit Dutchess Recreational Vehicles. Our dealership in Poughkeepsie, New York offers convenient access to communities like Peekskill, New York and Danbury, Connecticut. We also offer financing, consignments, parts ordering, and servicing.