Safety first for chainsaw chaps

IT'S CHAINSAW Safety Awareness Week, and St John are working with chainsaw-makers Stihl to keep safety "top of mind".

St John clinical director Tony Smith says a major issue in New Zealand is the lack of safety gear worn by the occasional user of chainsaws.

It's important to invest in safety when buying a chainsaw, says Smith, and to also buy chaps, protective glasses and earmuffs.

"We know first hand the outcome of irresponsible chainsaw usage and it's horrible, so it's positive to see companies like Stihl helping to educate Kiwis on correct chainsaw use so that these incidents can be prevented," Smith says.

"It's not just about getting the ambulance to the scene afterwards."

Nine-time Stihl Timbersports Series champion Jason Wynyard, the national ambassador for Chainsaw Safety Awareness Week, says he doesn't understand why donning safety gear isn't a natural step for Kiwi lads.

"I wouldn't dream of using a chainsaw without safety gear, and I'm an expert," he says.

"You wouldn't drive without wearing a seatbelt or go fishing without a lifejacket, so why on earth would you use a chainsaw without safety gear? There's no excuse. "It's simple. Get some chaps to cover your legs, gloves to protect your hands, a helmet, steel-capped boots, and eye and ear protection. That way, if the unexpected does happen, the chances of getting seriously injured are much less."

To support the simple yet essential steps for safe chainsaw operation, Stihl is offering safety packs containing chaps, safety glasses and earmuffs for the special price of $158 (normally $240) during the week or while stocks last.

A portion of all sales this week will go to St John.