Summer is here and there's no better time to get outside and knock out your yard work on a Spartan zero-turn mower. With long, hot days ahead, a little planning goes a long way toward staying safe and comfortable while you mow.
Before you fire up the deck and get to work, here are a few summer rules that'll help you make the most of your time behind the wheel:
1. WEAR IT, DON'T BARE IT
Believe it or not, wearing the right clothing and safety gear can make all the difference on a sunny day in the yard. First off, short sleeves and shorts are a no-go! Your skin won't just be exposed to the damaging rays of the sun, you'll also be exposed to flying debris and other hazards that come with mowing. Choosing a breathable fabric like cotton or linen helps combat overheating. Also consider sturdy boots, gloves, and eye and ear protection. Tinted safety glasses will help shield you from UV rays. Anything you can wear to protect your skin and your body can minimize injury, so don't skip it.
2. MADE IN THE SHADE
The temperature difference between sunny and shady areas is amazing. In the shade, you may feel 10-15 degrees cooler even though the temperature is the same in both areas. Shade feels cooler mainly because you're avoiding solar radiation. Applying sunscreen and mowing the shaded parts of your property during the hottest stretch of the day will make it easier on you.
3. HYDRATION STATION
Believe it or not, you usually sweat more than you realize when you're out mowing in the hot summer months. The loss of water and electrolytes can lead to major dehydration! Always bring enough water, and plan to bring a lot more than you think you need. Staying hydrated keeps you focused and helps you react more quickly to whatever the yard throws at you. A hands-free hydration pack is a great option so you can drink without stopping.
4. BREAK IT DOWN
Big properties can take hours, and the whole time you're scanning for hazards and steering your mower around obstacles. If you don't take frequent breaks you can lose focus and energy, which makes the work miserable and potentially dangerous. Heat exhaustion is real, too. If your skin gets cold and clammy or your muscles start to cramp, it's time to stop. You can avoid all of this by taking the breaks your body needs to recover.
Spartan builds rugged, American-made zero-turn mowers with the strength, power, and performance to handle whatever your property dishes out. We sell and service the full Spartan lineup right here in Laddonia, and we're ready to help you find the mower that fits your needs. Reach out and beat the heat in style this summer!