Resources Available for Safe Storm Cleanup

Free Chain Saw Safety Video and Safety Tips at LearnStormSafety.com and
stihlusa.com

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., June 10 /PRNewswire/ -- In the wake of recent storms,
it's important to minimize the risk of injury during cleanup and repair. STIHL
offers free, online resources to help. You can view the company's video on
chain saw safety, as well as download the chain saw safety manual, online at
www.stihlusa.com/information. Be sure to always read, understand and follow
the directions in the manufacturer's instruction manual when operating any
power tool.

"I spend a lot of time outdoors in my gardens; and whenever a storm comes
through, I want to take care of any damage done to them right away," said P.
Allen Smith, master gardener and TODAY Show garden correspondent. "But I've
learned that a shocking number of injuries and deaths can be caused from
improper use of equipment - after the storm."

You should always consult a professional for all aboveground work and any
tasks that exceed your capabilities.

"Anyone who is clearing debris and downed trees from their property should
consult with a tree care professional and take all safety precautions
possible," said Mark Chisholm, certified arborist with Aspen Tree Expert
Company.

When attempting smaller cleanup jobs on your own, here are some additional
safety tips from an article by Chisholm on the STIHL storm safety site,
LearnStormSafety.com:

-- Always wear proper protective equipment, including hearing and eye
protection, proper helmet system, heavyduty nonslip gloves, chain saw
protective pants or chaps.
-- Look up before walking beneath trees after a storm. Broken tree limbs
may still be lodged in trees, but can easily fall. These are referred
to
as "widowmakers" for good reason.
-- When a tree is uprooted or downed, it creates an unnatural pattern of
pressure points and tension. An unknowing chain saw operator may be in
severe danger if attempting to cut a tensioned limb or trunk (called a
"springpole") -- it may have an extremely violent,
catapult-like reaction. Consult a professional.
-- Watch for downed utility lines and never try to move them without
professional assistance. Phone lines can also carry an electric
charge.

More information and tips are available at www.stihlusa.com and
www.learnstormsafety.com.

About Mark Chisholm
One part acrobat, one part expert rope climber, one part tree physiologist,
and several parts competitor and thrill seeker, Mark Chisholm is a
third-generation arborist with his family-owned Aspen Tree Expert Company in
New Jersey. His expertise in tree care has made him a sought after consultant
and industry spokesperson for the world of arboriculture, and he regularly
travels the globe to consult with international arborist associations.

About STIHL Inc.
STIHL Inc. manufactures the world's largest selling brand of chain saws and
produces a full line of powerful, lightweight, and versatile handheld outdoor
power equipment for homeowners and professional users. STIHL products are sold
through servicing power equipment retailers from coast to coast-- not mass
merchants. STIHL products sold through U.S. STIHL dealers are for distribution
in the U.S. only. For more information or for the name of the closest STIHL
retailer call toll free 1-800-GO STIHL (1-800-467-8445) or visit the STIHL Web
site at www.stihlusa.com.

STIHL is pleased to support the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA),
the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), National FFA, Professional Landcare
Network (PLANET), the American Tree Farm System (ATFS), the Tree Research and
Education Endowment (TREE) Fund, and the National Association of State Park
Directors (NASPD).

SOURCE STIHL

Press Inquiries: Anita Gambill of STIHL, +1-757-486-9151, or other inquiries
for STIHL: +1-757-486-9100