In a lawn and garden implement, a starting system is provided therefor which prevents accidental energization of the implement, and which also provides for automatic deenergization of the implement upon release thereof by the operator. The starting system includes an actuator lever engaging a switch actuator to rotate a removable key inserted within a rotary operated switch to open and close the implement's circuitry. Lockout means are provided which engage the switch actuator and which must be disengaged therefrom to permit actuator rotation. The component parts of the present invention all cooperate sequentially to provide a starting system which will not energize the implement unless the operator consciously follows the proper starting sequence.