Use Chain Saw Safely When Cleaning Up Storm Damage Says Husqvarna.CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- When storms cause fallen branches and trees, many consumers use chain saws to help with the clean up process. "Cleaning up after a storm is one scenario when a chain saw often lands in the hands of an inexperienced in·ex·pe·ri·ence n. 1. Lack of experience. 2. Lack of the knowledge gained from experience. in operator due to necessity," said Mark Michaels, product manager for Husqvarna. "I encourage anyone operating a saw to carefully review the owner's manual and follow all safety guidelines guidelines, n.pl a set of standards, criteria, or specifications to be used or followed in the performance of certain tasks. ." Michaels offers six steps to help ensure safe and efficient chain saw operation. 1. Select the proper saw A mid-sized saw is suggested for cutting wood on the ground. A saw with a bar of 16 to 20 inches provides maneuverability and is lighter in weight. When cutting smaller limbs, a lightweight, high-speed saw is recommended. Look for design features like good balance, low vibration, and high power-to-weight ratio Power-to-weight ratio (specific power) is a calculation commonly applied to engines and other mobile power plants to enable the comparison of one unit (design) to another. Power-to-weight ratio is a measurement of actual performance of any engine (power plant). . 2. Wear protective attire A properly outfitted operator wears protective chaps or pants, eye and ear protection, protective footwear and work gloves, and a helmet. 3. Inspect the saw before use Make sure the chain brake is clean and the brake band Noun 1. brake band - a band that can be tightened around a shaft to stop its rotation band - a restraint put around something to hold it together brake system, brakes - a braking device consisting of a combination of interacting parts that work to slow a isn't worn. Next, check the inertia inertia (ĭnûr`shə), in physics, the resistance of a body to any alteration in its state of motion, i.e., the resistance of a body at rest to being set in motion or of a body in motion to any change of speed or change in direction of and manual activation of the chain brake to ensure they are in working condition. Finally, inspect the chain for proper tension and sharpness. 4. Start Safe The safest place to start a chain saw is on the ground. To assure that the saw is sitting securely on the ground, place your right foot in the rear handle. Nothing should be obstructing the guide bar and chain. 5. Carefully plan your cutting job Avoid hazards like dead limbs, electric lines and roads. Maintain a safe distance from bystanders but never work alone. Evaluate the wind direction and the lean of the tree. 6. Protect yourself against "kick-back" Kick-back is a sudden rearward rear·ward 1 adv. Toward, to, or at the rear. adj. At or in the rear. n. A rearward direction, point, or position. rear motion of a chain saw caused by contact between the tip of the bar and a log or other obstruction obstruction /ob·struc·tion/ (ob-struk´shun) 1. the act of blocking or clogging. 2. block; occlusion; the state or condition of being clogged.obstruc´tive ob·struc·tion n. . A firm grip on the saw and the proper stance can reduce the risk or severity of kick-back. The chain brake is also designed to reduce the effect of kick-back and prevent possible injury. Taking the time to review all safety precautions precautions Infectious disease The constellation of activities intended to minimize exposure to an infectious agent; precautions imply that the isolation of an infected Pt is optional, but not mandatory. can help prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injuries. For more safety information, visit Husqvarna's web site at www.husqvarna.com. To locate your nearest Husqvarna dealer, call 1-800 HUSKY 62. |
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