All snow blowers are potentially dangerous to the uninformed, careless user. They contain a large, exposed mechanism designed to dig into the snow, making it difficult to provide safety through a guard system. However, with proper use, snow blowers offer a service that is safer than shoveling. The auger at the front of the blower, along with moving gears, chains and belts, presents the greatest hazard to anyone tampering with a blower while it's running. Injuries usually occur when the operator attempts to clear off debris without turning off the motor.
Wet snow tends to clog the blades and vanes, and often jams and sticks in the chute.
Operators must keep a careful watch for items hidden under the snow that could be picked up by the blower and discharged out of the machines chute. Please note that objects such as small pieces of ice, pebbles and debris will fly farther than snow. Read the operator's manual. Know the controls and how to stop the engine or throw the unit out of gear quickly. Disengage power and stop the motor before cleaning the discharge chute, removing obstacles, making adjustments or when leaving the operating position.