Did you know we're right in the middle of hurricane season? That's right. The Atlantic Coast experiences this phenomenon between June 1st and November 30th every year! Whether you're right on the coast or a few hours inland, you're bound to experience some sort of storm related mess this year. Here's some quick info to help you get cleaned up:
Storm Cleanup is a Breeze with Safe, Careful Chainsaw Use
When a storm strikes hard, fallen trees often leave a trail of damage.
Clean-up is easier when everyone pitches in to help, and that sometimes means that people unaccustomed to using chainsaws are suddenly wielding these useful – but potentially dangerous – tools.
Don’t wait until you are called into action to become educated on the proper use of a chainsaw. And if you already own one, but use it rarely, now’s the time for some refresher tips on operating it safely and efficiently.
If you want to take a class but you don't know how to get started or where to look, just contact Red Top Mower to find out when we'll be hosting classes this year! Our classes include everything from basic saw knowledge and maintenance to hands on, in-the-woods application where the instructor demonstrates how to properly fell a tree, then cut it up for removal.
Know your limits
If you are a beginner, don’t tackle a task that’s too tough. Leave the felling of large trees to more experienced users. If many trees are already down after a storm, you will get plenty of work limbing, or removing branches from the stem of a felled tree. Even the most experienced saw users can get into a sticky situation by not knowing their own limits.
Read the manual
So often we go out and purchase a new appliance or power tool and immediately trash the owners manual. Your manual is actually a wonderful resource for safety precautions. If you have access to the operator’s manual, take a few minutes to read it – and closely follow the instructions and advice provided.
Starting the engine
When starting the engine for the first time, place the saw on a flat surface on the ground. Place your right foot in the rear handle for better support, and keep a firm grip on the front handle with your left hand. Activate the chain break, activate the choke and then pull the starter handle with your right hand. Repeat until the engine fires. Push the choke (half-throttle) and pull until the saw starts, accelerate so that the engine idles and then release the chain brake.
How to stand
It’s vital to stay in balance. When limbing, stand with your feet planted firmly on the ground, comfortably apart and at a 45-degree angle to the trunk. Try not to move your feet while in the process of limbing, and make sure you have ample reach at all times.
Bend your knees
Sometimes cleaning up after a storm can take days of long hours and heavy lifting. You can avoid back soreness by bending your knees slightly while cutting, especially in low positions. Try to avoid bending your back when operating the chainsaw for long periods of time.
Keep your distance
You know the saying, "'tis better to err on the side of caution". That's just a fancy way of sayinig "better safe than sorry". Don't fool around with thousand pound trees. If working in close proximity to others, make sure you stay at least 10 feet apart, and always alert those around you of your presence.
Take your time
Stand on the left side of the tree trunk and begin limbing on the right side. Work calmly and methodically, branch by branch. Saw with a pulling or pushing chain depending on the direction you apply the guide bar and how much the branch weighs. Limb the trunk on the right side, top and left side from the position you are standing. Then move forward carefully to the next round of branches, and repeat the process.
Moving safely
A saw can be very dangerous, even when you aren't cutting into a tree. Getting from point A to point B requires a few extra steps regarding safety. When you are finished in one area, and moving short distances, make sure the chain is stationary. Hold the saw firmly, with one hand on each handle. If moving longer distances, activate the chain brake first.
Avoid kickback
Kickback can occur if the saw is not handled carefully. You can avoid the greatest risk of kickback simply by avoiding any cutting using the tip, or nose, of the chainsaw. Keep you thumbs and fingers wrapped around the handles at all times.
Take a course, of course!
For more information about our Chain Saw Safety Courses, you can contact us by any of the following:
kim.redtopmower@gmail.com
770-966-7779
facebook.com/redtopmower
