Run for your lives! Dad is mowing the lawn!

If someone in your family is about to mow the lawn, head for the hills – or at least inside... 

According to the CPSC, about 20,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year from power mower injuries. Some of those injuries were even fatal – and most were caused by debris kicked up by the spinning blade. Consumer Reports has a few things we can do to prevent a potential mowing disaster:

• Clear your lawn of all twigs, rocks and other objects before you start.

• Check the blade regularly for damage, bends and dullness. A blade should be replaced every 1 to 2 years.

• Keep children and pets inside when the lawn mower is in operation.

• Do not remove or adjust the position of the mower’s deflector. That can result in debris flying at a longer distance.

• Check the protective rubber trail shield at the back of the mower for damage or tears every season.