Chain Saw Safety

Operating a chain saw is inherently hazardous. Potential injuries can be minimized by using proper personal protective equipment and safe operating procedures.

Before Starting a Chain Saw

Check controls, chain tension, and all bolts and handles to ensure that they are functioning properly and that they are adjusted according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Make sure that the chain is always sharp and the lubrication reservoir is full.
Start the saw on the ground or on another firm support. Drop starting is never allowed.
Start the saw at least 10 feet from the fueling area, with the chain's brake engaged.

Fueling a Chain Saw

Use approved containers for transporting fuel to the saw.
Dispense fuel at least 10 feet away from any sources of ignition when performing construction activities. No smoking during fueling.
Use a funnel or a flexible hose when pouring fuel into the saw.
Never attempt to fuel a running or HOT saw.

Chain Saw Safety

Clear away dirt, debris, small tree limbs and rocks from the saw's chain path. Look for nails, spikes or other metal in the tree before cutting.
Shut off the saw or engage its chain brake when carrying the saw on rough or uneven terrain.
Keep your hands on the saw's handles, and maintain secure footing while operating the saw.
Proper personal protective equipment must be worn when operating the saw, which includes hand, foot, leg, eye, face, hearing and head protection.
Do not wear loose-fitting clothing.
Be careful that the trunk or tree limbs will not bind against the saw.
Watch for branches under tension, they may spring out when cut.
Gasoline-powered chain saws must be equipped with a protective device that minimizes chain saw kickback.
Be cautious of saw kick-back. To avoid kick-back, do not saw with the tip. If equipped, keep tip guard in place.

Portable Ladder Safety

Falls from portable ladders (step, straight, combination and extension) are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.

· Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder.

· Avoid electrical hazards! – Look for overhead power lines before handling a ladder. Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.

· Always inspect the ladder prior to using it. If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded.

· Always maintain a 3-point (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) contact on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing (see diagram).

· Only use ladders and appropriate accessories (ladder levelers, jacks or hooks) for their designed purposes.

· Ladders must be free of any slippery material on the rungs, steps or feet.

· Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position.

· Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose.

· Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent displacement.

· Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to obtain additional height.

· Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder.

· An extension or straight ladder used to access an elevated surface must extend at least 3 feet above the point of support (see diagram). Do not stand on the three top rungs of a straight, single or extension ladder.

· The proper angle for setting up a ladder is to place its base a quarter of the working length of the ladder from the wall or other vertical surface (see diagram).

· A ladder placed in any location where it can be displaced by other work activities must be secured to prevent displacement or a barricade must be erected to keep traffic away from the ladder.

· Be sure that all locks on an extension ladder are properly engaged.

· Do not exceed the maximum load rating of a ladder. Be aware of the ladder’s load rating and of the weight it is supporting, including the weight of any tools or equipment.

Beware of Fraud & Scams When Seeking Disaster Assistance

After a disaster scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals may attempt to prey on vulnerable survivors. The most common post-disaster fraud practices include phony housing inspectors, fraudulent building contractors, bogus pleas for disaster donations and fake offers of state or federal aid.

Survivors should keep in mind:

Federal and state workers never ask for, or acceptmoney, and always carry identification badges
There is NO FEE required to apply for or to get disaster assistance from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration or the state
Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person

Price Gouging

Price gouging occurs when a supplier marks up the price of an item more than is justified by his actual costs. Survivors are particularly susceptible because their needs are immediate, and have few alternatives to choose from. If you find price gouging, contact your State's Office of the Attorney General.

Dealing with Contractors:

Survivors should take steps to protect themselves and avoid fraud when hiring contractors to clean property, remove debris or make repairs.

· Simple rules to avoid becoming a victim of fraud:

· Only use contractors licensed by your state

· Get a written estimate and get more than one estimate

· Demand and check references

· Ask for proof of insurance

· i.e., liability and Workmen's Compensation

· Insist on a written contract and refuse to sign a contract with blank spaces

· Get any guarantees in writing

· Make final payments only after the work is completed

The best way to avoid fraud is to arm yourself against it by having a checklist to remind you of what you need to demand when hiring a contractor.