5• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do notpoint it at anyone. Do not operate the mower withouteither the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.• Slow down before turning. Sharp turns on any terrainmay cause loss of control.• Turn off blades when not mowing.• Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away fromattachment discharge area, underside of mower and anymoving parts while engine is running.• Stop the engine before removing the grass catcher orunclogging the chute.• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.• Watch for traffic when operating near or crossingroadways.• Do not touch equipment or attachment parts which maybe hot from operation. Allow to cool before attemptingto maintain, adjust or service.• Use only Toro-approved attachments. Warranty may bevoided if used with unapproved attachments.Slope OperationSlopes and ramps are a major factor related toloss-of-control and accidents, which can result in severeinjury or death. All slopes and ramps require extra caution.If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.DO• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. fromthe mowing area.• Watch for holes, ruts or bumps. Tall grass can hideobstacles.• Use slow speed so that you will not have to stop whileon the slope.• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.These can change the stability of the machine.• Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do notmake sudden changes in speed or direction.• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires losetraction, disengage the blades.• Check carefully for overhead clearances (i.e. branches,doorways, electrical wires) before driving under anyobjects and do not contact them.• Mow slopes side to side.DO NOT• Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.• Avoid turning on slopes. If you must turn, turn slowlyand gradually downhill, if possible.• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.The machine could suddenly turn over if a wheel goesover the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could causesliding.• Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes. Heavy grassbags could cause loss of control of the machine.• Do not mow up and down slopes.Service• Never store the machine or fuel container inside wherethere is an open flame, such as near a water heater orfurnace.• Keep nuts and bolts tight, especially the bladeattachment bolts. Keep equipment in good condition.• Never tamper with safety devices. Check safety systemsfor proper operation before each use.• Use only genuine replacement parts to ensure thatoriginal standards are maintained.• Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service asrequired.