The recent tragedy involving a tree-caused fatality in Val-Des-Mont has prompted me to speak out about chainsaw safety. We've experience several of these very sad accidents in our community in the recent past, and I'm afraid that our rural attitudes underestimate the incredible unpredictability and danger of working with trees. Here are some life-saving tips:
1. KNOW YOUR LIMITS. Those who are comfortable handling chainsaws are certainly able to deal with small, healthy trees clear of hazards, or helping with the cleanup of tree removals. The minute a homeowner takes on a task that they unfamiliar with, they put their life in danger. Dying or rotten trees are extremely dangerous (recall 2009 Farrellton tragedy).
2. DO NOT WORK ALONE! The buddy system is not only crucial in a worst-case scenario, but it also gives an extra pair of eyes and ears from another vantage point.
3. WEAR PROTECTIVE GEAR: helmet, ear protection, eye glasses, chainsaw pants, and steel-toed boots EVERY single time you use a saw, even for one cut. Chainsaw kickbacks happen in a flash, and trees/limbs fall without warning.
4.USE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT: light-weight saws with a narrow tip and a thin chain work best for pruning, where a more powerful saw would be suitable for removals. Keeping a sharp chain makes work easier and safer, since you don't have to put as much pressure into the cut. Finally, use high-quality oil and fuel; the initial cost may be a deterrent, but people don't realize how proper maintenance will minimize costly repairs in the future.
