After A Storm, Chainsaw Accidents Are A Danger

In the aftermath of a winter storm, homeowners have plenty of ice and snow to remove from walkways and driveways. The storm can also be destructive to trees, covering branches in snow and ice and even breaking limbs from the heavy weight.

Homeowners often handle much of the cleanup on their own, with tools they aren't comfortable or experienced using. The result can be accidents, from minor in nature, to deadly serious.

If you are not experienced at using a chain saw, you are better off hiring a tree service to remove the debris for you. And if you are an experienced operator, be sure to follow all safety guidelines in the owner's manual.

The right tools for the task

When selecting power equipment, consider the task ahead, familiarity with the product, tree size, weather conditions and location of power sources. Even for experienced operators, post-storm cleanup can present risks.

Before starting up a chainsaw, make sure you follow this safety check list:

• Make sure the saw's chain is properly tensioned before each use and all fasteners, controls and safety features are functioning properly.

• Make sure the bar and chain is always lubricated to prevent the saw from wearing out or cutting poorly. Never let the oil reservoir run out or it will ruin your chain. A good rule of thumb is to fill your oil tank each time you fill your fuel tank or check often when using an electric product.

• Start the saw while standing on the ground and always hold the handles securely and follow manufacturers recommended procedure for starting.

• Clear debris and small tree limbs from the saw's chain path, and beware of nails and other metal before cutting.

• Avoid saw "kick back," to prevent a serious chain saw injury. Never let the tip of the bar come in contact with anything. Always reference the operator's manual for proper chainsaw operation and safety instructions.

Conduct an inspection

When cleaning up your yard after a storm, injury prevention is the most important factor to keep in mind. Before starting the work of removing debris, you should walk around your property to inspect overall damage and take pictures as documentation.

Check overhead for downed power lines and hanging branches. Never touch a power line that appears to be down or hanging. Instead, call your power company immediately to report the problem.

Finally, you can promote safety and reduce chances of injury by dressing appropriately using protective eyewear, hearing protection, durable gloves, waterproof steel toe boots and a hard hat. Because the ground may be icy, make sure to clear away any ice or snow where you are working. Avoid wearing loose clothing, jewelry or dangling objects that might become tangled in machinery.

Use a chain saw to remove branches weakened by the storm but still attached. Examine upper canopies for irregular branches and remove these branches with extreme caution. Bowed or stressed branches can easily snap and cause severe injury. Make sure to cut in a location that will eliminate exposure to unexpected breaking limbs. 

Keep your feet on the ground

Never work with a saw on a ladder or near a downed power line. Ask a family member or neighbor to be present while using a chain saw in case of an emergency and maintain a safe distance of 50 feet from all bystanders.

Fallen and leaning trees can be extremely dangerous if they have not yet come to rest with the ground. If you are unsure or inexperienced, call a certified arborist to remove trees safely and professionally. If hazardous branches are overhanging a sidewalk or curb, set up cones to alert pedestrians of the hazard.

Prevent serious or fatal injuries, never use a chain saw when your balance is compromised, while up in a tree or on a roof. Don't risk your safety -- always allow a professional to do the job.