Residents Urged to be Cautious When Using Chainsaws and Portable Generators

PEARL, Miss. (Press Release) — In the wake of Monday’s severe weather and tornadoes many Mississippi residents are operating chainsaws to remove debris and running portable generators until power is restored in affected areas. Mississippi Emergency Management Agency would like to remind people utilizing this equipment to operate it safely.

Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe when using a chainsaw:

• Operate, adjust and maintain the saw according to the manufacturer’s instructions;
• properly sharpen chainsaw blades and properly lubricate the blade;
• choose the proper size of chainsaw to match the job;
• wear the appropriate protective equipment including a hard-hat, safety glasses and protective clothing;
• avoid power lines;
• bystanders should remain at least two tree lengths or 150 feet away; and
• beware of injury from bent trees or branches.

Here are some additional tips when operating a portable generator:

• Never use a generator inside a building;
• follow the instructions that come with your generator;
• install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector inside of your home or dwelling;
• operate the generator is a dry place as moisture can increase the risk of shock or electrocution;
• connect appliances to the generator using heavy-duty extension cords designed for outdoor use;
• never try to power the house by plugging the generator into a wall outlet; and
• before refueling a generator, turn it off and let it cool down to avoid an accidental fire.

For any injuries requiring more than minor first aid should be treated by a medical professional. Call 9-1-1 for immediate medical care.

MEMA asks the public to report any damages to their local emergency management agency. For a full list of contact numbers for your county, visit www.msema.org/local-ema. For more information, go to MEMA’s website at www.msema.org or download the MEMA mobile app on your iOS or Android device.

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