Using A Strimmer Correctly Here is a basic user guide to get you going.

Prepare the strimmer for use. If it's a petrol one examine oil and make certain you have satisfactory fuel to perform the job. For those who have an electric one simply just plug it in. Be sure you wear all the appropriate safety and protective gear before you start-more on this below.

Try to position the strimmer near to the ground, thus ensuring a comfortable working stance. Start the strimmer and commence cutting. Use a continual sweeping side to side motion, going steadily ahead. Try to clear big rocks and other materials within your path before you start strimming as these will probably wear down or even snap your nylon line a lot more easily so you will have to swap it more regularly If while you are strimming you observe any pain, strain or muscle pull then cease immediately and rest before continuing on. If you don't then you may well feel pain for a few days afterwards.

Ensure you wear the shoulder strap supplied since this can help prevent back and neck problems. Avoid using the strimmer against rocks, bricks, fencing or anything besides the grass or weeds as they could wear or even break the nylon cord. Aim to cut underneath area of the weed. Hold the strimmer at a safe distance to prevent cutting yourself accidently, most good strimmers have a protective shield to help prevent these sort of accidents. If using an electric one steer clear of water for obvious reasons and petrol ones can certainly poison the water.

Make sure any kids or animals are safely indoors to stop them from being hurt by any small stones or other materials that could be tossed up.

Safety equipment Trousers/overalls - Thick sturdy overalls are suitable as are working jeans.

Gloves - Almost any type of gloves are much better than no gloves whatsoever. Gloves help guard from strain and in many cases long term conditions like tendonitis.

Goggles - If you wear just one piece of safety kit then make sure it's some industrial strength goggles. Without having them you risk injury or even the loss of eyesight from flying debris. Ear defenders- ear plugs and cotton wool won't suffice. Get yourself a set of ear defenders as continued use without them could potentially cause lasting and irreversible ear damage. Boots or sturdy footwear- Steel toe capped is best however , not trainers, flip flops etc since you might lose a couple of digits or be cut badly.

By adhering to these basic safety tips you should be fine. Always stick to the manufactures guidelines to your tool.