Lawn mowers are powerful machines. Careless injuries harm children and adults alike each year, according to these concerned medical groups: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (the docs who reattach fingers!).

Prevent injuries by following these lawn mower safety tips:

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

•  Children should be at least 12 years of age before operating a push lawn mower and age 16 to operate a driving lawn mower.

•  Wear sturdy shoes (not sandals or sneakers) while mowing.

•  Prevent injuries from flying objects, such as stones or toys, by picking up objects from the lawn before mowing begins. Have anyone who uses a mower or is in the vicinity to wear polycarbonate protective eyewear at all times.

•  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, inspecting or repairing lawn mower equipment, or crossing gravel paths, roads, or other areas.

•  Use a stick or broom handle (not your hands or feet) to remove debris in lawn mowers.

•  Do not allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers and keep children out of the yard while mowing.

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

•  Keep lawn mowers in good working order. Before using a lawn mower for the first time in a season, have it serviced to ensure that it is working correctly.