January 25th

By Mutt Mulligan

Powerful rain storms bring tree and yard damage

From California to the East Coast, there has been plenty of flooding.  After strong winds and rainfall, you’ll be tempted to break out chain saws and other outdoor power equipment to clear away broken limbs and damaged trees.  Please keep in mind these important safety reminders: 

• Have a chain saw on hand for clean up, but first read and understand the instruction manual and ensure the equipment is in good condition.   
• Make sure you understand chain saw “kickback.” “Kickback” may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. 
• Don’t work around power lines. One of the biggest threats to safety is downed utility lines. While an electrical conductor lying on the ground may appear harmless, they are considered “hot” unless tested and grounded!  Do not touch it—no matter what!  Contact a professional. 

For a list of safety tips for chain saws visit http://www.opei.org/ht/d/sp/i/228/pid/228 and for overall storm safety tips visit http://www.opei.org/ht/d/sp/i/206/pid/206