September is traditionally the most active time for hurricanes and tropical storms. Once a storm passes through, the challenges are not over. There is still recovery and cleanup.
The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) offers tips to help everyone stay safe during recovery efforts:
Figure out where to start. Survey the property and the damage, as well as safety risks such as downed power lines or unstable structures. Consider what will be needed to clean up. You might need a chainsaw, portable generator, pole pruner, water pump or utility vehicle.
Use common sense when using outdoor power equipment. Take time to think through a strategy for cleanup efforts and use the appropriate equipment for the job. If necessary, call a professional landscape contractor or tree-care service for downed trees.
Use safety gear. Sturdy shoes, safety goggles, hard hats, chaps, reflective clothing and work gloves can help protect people cleaning up from a storm.
Follow manufacturer’s directions for equipment operation. Operate your equipment safely and follow directions from the equipment manufacturer for safe usage. If you don’t know how to use a piece of equipment, owner’s manuals are often available online.
Only use outdoor power equipment that is in good working order. Make sure equipment works well and that safety guards have not been disabled.
Trim trees safely. When using equipment such as chain saws or pruners, keep both feet firmly on the ground, and observe the safety zone, which means keeping bystanders and power lines (those above you and any that might have fallen down) at least 50 feet away from your work area.
Use safety precautions. Be aware of fundamental dangers that can occur. For instance, chainsaw kickback, which may happen when the moving chain at the tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Always stand with your weight on both feet and adjust your stance so you are angled away from the blade. Hold the chainsaw with both hands. Never over-reach or cut anything above your shoulder height. Always have a planned retreat path if something falls.
Keep the right fuel on hand. Store fuel in an approved container. Use the type of fuel recommended by your equipment manufacturer. Use fuel with 10% or less ethanol in gasoline-fueled outdoor power equipment. (For more information: www.LookBeforeYouPump.com.)
Be battery ready. Recharge batteries only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may not be compatible with another battery pack. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or equipment outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery.
Ensure portable electric generators have plenty of ventilation. Generators should never be used in an enclosed area or placed inside a home or garage, even if the windows or doors are open. Place the generator outside and away from windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. Keep the generator dry, and make sure you have adequate outdoor-rated extension cords. Before refueling, turn the generator off and let it cool down.
Drive utility vehicles (UTVs) with caution. Keep the vehicle stable and drive slowly. Do not turn the vehicle mid-slope or while on a hill.
Be aware of others. Keep bystanders, children and animals out of your work area. Do not allow other people near outdoor power equipment when starting the equipment or using it.
Listen to your body. Storm cleanup can be draining. Do not operate power equipment when you are tired. Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks.
