Tips on Chain Saw Safety
Release Date: January 20, 2007
Release Number: 1676-007
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Columbia, Mo. -- As victims of the recent ice storm turn to the task of cleaning up debris, the State of Missouri Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urge them to exercise caution. Many jobs will require the use of accident prone tools and machinery.
The chain saw is one of the most efficient and productive power tools used for debris clean up but if not used properly it can be dangerous. To avoid harm, follow these simple instructions:
Survey the job at hand and plan your task.
Keep both hands on the chainsaw handles.
Keep your eye on the blade and what you are cutting.
Cut only on the right side of your body.
Always cut below your head.
Cut with the lower edge of the saw blade whenever possible. Cutting with the tip of the saw is inviting injury.
Watch out when cutting limbs and branches that are bent, they may snap back and hit you.
Let the chainsaw do the work. Don't try to force the saw.
Wear protective clothing; a hard hat, goggles, safety shoes, gloves and trim-fitting clothes.
- Don't wear yourself out. Stay alert.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident, initiates mitigation activities and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA works closely with state and local emergency managers, law enforcement personnel, firefighters and other first responders. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 07-Mar-2007 15:01:22