5Method of operation– Always use two hands to grip each handles during operation.– Use the Hedge Trimmer only in good light and visibility. Duringcold seasons beware of slippery or wet areas, ice and snow (riskof slipping). Always ensure a safe footing.– Never work on unstable surfaces or steep terrain.– Never stand on a ladder and run the Hedge Trimmer.– Never climb up into trees to perform cutting operation with theHedge Trimmer.– To reduce the risk of stumbling and loss of control, do not walkbackward while operating the machine.– Always stop the engine before cleaning or servicing the unit orreplacing parts.– Do not operate the machine with a damaged or excessively worncutting device.Maintenance instructions– Be kind to the environment. Operate the Hedge Trimmer with aslittle noise and pollution as possible. In particular check thecorrect adjustment of the carburetor.– Clean the Hedge Trimmer at regular intervals and check that allscrews and nuts are securely tightened.– Never service or store the Hedge Trimmer in the vicinity of openflames, sparks, etc. (11).– Always store the Hedge Trimmer in a well-ventilated locked roomand with an emptied fuel tank out of reach of children.– Do not attempt to repair the machine unless you are qualified todo so;(10)(11)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 Authorized Service Agents.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.First aidIn case of an accident make sure that a well-stocked first-aid kitaccording to DIN 13164, is available in the vicinity of the cuttingoperations.Immediately replace any item taken from the first aid kit.When asking for help, please give the following information:– Place of accident– What happened– Number of injured persons– Extend of injuries– Your namePackagingThe MAKITA Hedge Trimmer is delivered in a protective cardboardbox to prevent shipping damage. Cardboard is a basic raw materialand is therefore consequently reusable or suitable for recycling(waste paper recycling).(12)