What is an important safety precaution when operating a power washer?

An important safety precaution when operating a power washer is to never point the nozzle at people or pets. This is critical because power washers can generate extremely high pressure, which can cause serious injury or harm if directed at living beings. The pressurized water can penetrate the skin, cause bruising, or lead to other severe injuries. Ensuring that the nozzle is always pointed away from individuals and animals is a fundamental aspect of maintaining safety during operation.

While wearing sunglasses can provide eye protection from splashes, and cleaning the nozzle frequently might ensure optimal performance, these actions do not directly address the potential for injury from pointing the nozzle. Using a power washer in a closed space is also unsafe due to the risk of carbon monoxide build-up or exposure to other hazardous materials, making it even more crucial to focus on the safe handling of the nozzle.