Husqvarna Storm Center

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Tropical Storm Activity

Are you prepared?

Clearing out the damage caused by storms can be dangerous but with a little preparation beforehand and safety techniques during clean-up, you can minimize the damage, debris, and clean-up dangers of seasonal storms.

First, identify potential hazards around your home.

Secure lawn furniture, garbage cans and prune damaged limbs or remove hazardous trees. Having a chain saw before the storm is a good idea. Other useful equipment include a leaf blower for small debris, a pole saw or a pole saw attachment for your trimmer, and a portable generator for power.

Selecting a chain saw.

Select a mid-sized chain saw from the 45 to 60 cubic centimeter (cc) range for cutting downed wood. A 16 to 20 inch bar offers good maneuverability without being too heavy. A 35-45 cc light weight saw can be used for smaller limbs. Look for features like good balance and low vibration.

Personal safety.

Always make sure you have the proper safety apparel for operating a chain saw. First and foremost, have a first aid kit on hand along with a cell phone. Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chain saw protective chaps and steel toe boots are a must for heavy debris removal and a helmet with protect you from falling debris.

Pre-storm checklist:

Check the safety features of the equipment are functioning properly.
Do a visual inspection of the equipment for any necessary repairs.
Check the air filter.
Start the equipment and make sure it runs properly.
Sharpen or replace the chain on your saw if necessary.
Have extra fuel and oil for equipment.

Storm clean-up.

After the storm subsides and when clean-up begins can represent some very dangerous conditions. Statiscally, there are more injuries during the clean-up process than ever occur during the storm.

Chain saw tips.

A chain saw is best started on the ground with the chain brake engaged. Clear obstructions and secure the saw by placing your right foot in the rear handle. Your left hand should grip the front handle. Use your right hand to turn the saw on, set the choke, and pull the starter cord until it fires. Disengage the chain brake just before cutting. Avoid kickback which occurs when the upper corner of the nose of the bar contacts wood or other obstacles. The chain can grab and force ths saw quickly upwards and back toward the operator. Your body should always be slightly off to the left side of the saw with your right hand on the throttle.

Pole saw use.

Pole saws are a good idea for cutting limbs that have broken up above but have not completely separated from the tree. Some pruning can be done using a pole saw or for a lower reach, a chain saw. Never prune limbs with a chain saw above your head or while on a ladder.

Five step plan for working with storm damage.

Are there any power lines twisted in the debris?
Analyze wood before cutting - where will it fall? Is there pressure on the wood that will make it move when cut?
If there is an incline, will debris slide when moved or cut?
Be sure of an escape path if a cut tree or debris moves unexpectedly.
Take regular breaks and rest. Many injuries during clean-up can be traced back to fatigue.