Children should be encouraged to spend time outdoors when the weather allows, as physical activity is one of the hallmarks of a healthy lifestyle. But parents must exercise caution when kids are playing in the yard, especially when the grass is being mowed.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 9,000 children in the United States go to the emergency room for lawn mower-related injuries every year. Of the 800 children who are run over by mowers each year, 600 ultimately require amputations.

Many mower-related injuries occur when children who are too young and/or too weak to operate a mower are asked to do so. The AAP recommends that only children age 12 and older operate push mowers, while riding mowers should only be used by kids 16 and older. No child should use a mower without first being taught how to operate it, and kids should always wear eye protection and close-toed shoes when mowing. In addition, parents should never allow children to ride as passengers while mowing the lawn.

Mower-related injuries are preventable if parents emphasize safety. The following are some tips, courtesy of the AAP, that parents can follow to ensure their kids do not become one of the thousands of children who suffer mower-related injuries in a given year.

• Only use a mower with a control that stops the mower blade from moving if the handle is let go.

• Keep children out of the yard while mowing.

• Scour the yard for toys before mowing.

• Exercise caution if going in reverse.

• Only mow when there is adequate daylight.

• Periodically inspect your mower.

When mowing their lawns, parents must make safety their utmost priority to ensure kids do not suffer mower-related injuries.