5Method of operationUse the Hedge Trimmer only in good light and visibility. During cold seasons–beware of slippery or wet areas, ice and snow (risk of slipping). Alwaysensure a safe footing.Do not overreach or stand on unstable support. Keep good footing and–balance at all times.Keep both feet on the ground.–Never stand on a ladder and the Hedge Trimmer.–Never climb up into trees to perform cutting operation with the Hedge–Trimmer.DANGER-CUT HAZAARD-KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM BLADES.–Don’t feed twigs or other material to be cut into the blade with your hands orreach over the moving blade to pick up clippings.Never grasp the exposed cutting blades or cutting edges when picking up orholding the tool. CAUTION-Blade may coast after its turned off.KEEP HANDS AND ALL PARTS OF BODY AWAY– from blade.The edges are sharp and can cause injury even when the tool is “OFF”.BEFORE TRIMMING– , inspect areas for wires, cords, glass or other foreignobjects which could come in contact with the blade.Keep both hands on the handles when operating a Hedge Trimmer.–Never grasp exposed cutting blades of Hedge Trimmer.Make sure engine is stopped and blades have stopped moving before–clearing jammed material.Be aware of any and all electric lines and electric fences. Check all areas for–electrical lines before cutting.To reduce the risk of stumbling and loss of control, do not walk backward–while operating the machine.Maintenance instructionsAlways stop the engine before cleaning or servicing the unit or replacing–parts.MAINTAIN TOOL WITH CARE.– Keep cutting edges sharp and clean forbest and safest performance. Follow instructions for lubricating and propermaintenance.Be kind to the environment. Operate the Hedge Trimmer with as little noise–and pollution as possible. In particular check the correct adjustment of thecarburetor.Clean the Hedge Trimmer at regular intervals and check that all screws and–nuts are securely tightened.Never service or store the Hedge Trimmer in the vicinity of open flames,–sparks, etc. (11).Always store the Hedge Trimmer in a well-ventilated locked room and with an–emptied fuel tank out of reach of children.Observe and follow all relevant accident prevention instructions issued by the trade associations safety board and by insurancecompanies.Do not perform any modifications to the Hedge Trimmer as this will risk your safety.The performance of maintenance or repair work by the user is limited to those activities as described in this instruction manual. All other work isto be done by Makita authorized or Factory Service Centers.Use only genuine spare parts and accessories supplied by MAKITA authorized or factory service centers.Use of non-approved accessories and tools means increased risk of accidents and injuries. MAKITA will not accept any liability for accidents ordamage caused by the use of any non-approved accessories.(10)(11)