MOWING SAFETY TIPS Published Aug. 26, 2014 By 82nd Training Wing Ground Safety Bulletin SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Proper clothing is essential to protect your body. Always wear close-fitting pants, earplugs, protective eyewear and sturdy footwear (i.e., not sandals). Every time before you mow, check your lawn for items such as toys, sports equipment, dog bones, wire, equipment parts, rocks, sticks (and snakes!). Wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, cleaning underneath the mower, or crossing gravel paths, roads (or feet!).