Virginia Beach, VA - In the wake of recent storms, it’s important to minimize the risk of injury during cleanup and repair. STIHL offers free, online resources to help. You can view the company’s video on chain saw safety, as well as download the chain saw safety manual, online at www.stihlusa.com/information. Be sure to always read, understand and follow the directions in the manufacturer’s instruction manual when operating any power tool.
“I spend a lot of time outdoors in my gardens; and whenever a storm comes through, I want to take care of any damage done to them right away,” said P. Allen Smith, garden expert and TODAY Show contributor “But I've learned that a shocking number of injuries and deaths can be caused from improper use of equipment – after the storm.”
You should always consult a professional for all aboveground work and any tasks that exceed your capabilities.
“Anyone who is clearing debris and downed trees from their property should consult with a tree care professional and take all safety precautions possible,” said Mark Chisholm, certified arborist with Aspen Tree Expert Company.
When attempting smaller cleanup jobs on your own, here are some additional safety tips from an article by Chisholm on the STIHL storm safety site, LearnStormSafety.com:
- Always wear proper protective equipment, including hearing and eye protection, proper helmet system, heavy duty nonslip gloves, chain saw protective pants or chaps.
- Look up before walking beneath trees after a storm. Broken tree limbs may still be lodged in trees, but can easily fall. These are referred to as “widowmakers” for good reason
- When a tree is uprooted or downed, it creates an unnatural pattern of pressure points and tension. An unknowing chain saw operator may be in severe danger if attempting to cut a tensioned limb or trunk (called a “springpole”) – it may have an extremely violent, catapult-like reaction. Consult a professional.
- Watch for downed utility lines and never try to move them without professional assistance. Phone lines can also carry an electric charge.
More information and tips are available at www.stihlusa.com/information and www.learnstormsafety.com
About Mark Chisholm
One part acrobat, one part expert rope climber, one part tree physiologist, and several parts competitor and thrill seeker, Mark Chisholm is a third-generation arborist with his family-owned Aspen Tree Expert Company in New Jersey. His expertise in tree care has made him a sought after consultant and industry spokesperson for the world of arboriculture, and he regularly travels the globe to consult with international arborist associations.
About STIHL Inc.
STIHL Inc. manufactures the world’s largest selling brand of chain saws and produces a full line of powerful, lightweight, and versatile handheld outdoor power equipment for homeowners and professional users. STIHL products are sold through servicing power equipment retailers from coast to coast— not mass merchants. STIHL products sold through U.S. STIHL dealers are for distribution in the U.S. only. For more information or for the name of the closest STIHL retailer call toll free 1-800-GO STIHL (1-800-467-8445) or visit the dealer locator on the STIHL Web site at www.stihlusa.com.
STIHL is pleased to support the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), National FFA, Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), the American Tree Farm System (ATFS), the Tree Research and Education Endowment (TREE) Fund, and the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD).
