Release Date: May 2008

Press Contacts:
Anita Gambill
(757) 486-9151

All other inquiries:
STIHL Incorporated
(757) 486-9100

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. With recent tornadoes leaving much of the country ravaged and hurricane season quickly approaching, is your family prepared for what damages may come? There have been more tornados on record in the beginning of the 2008 season than in any of the previous three years and once a storm passes, there is often extensive work to be done. STIHL Inc. offers several tips on staying safe when cleaning up after a storm strikes.

“A shocking number of injuries occur after a storm has passed,” said Mark Chisholm, professional arborist with Aspen Tree Expert Company and STIHL spokesperson. “We recommend anyone who is clearing debris and downed trees off their property to consult with a professional and follow all safety precautions possible.”

While you should always consult a professional for aboveground work, here are some additional tips from an article by Chisholm on STIHL’s safety site, LearnStormSafety.com:

• Watch for downed utility lines and never try to move them without professional assistance. (Phone lines can also carry an electric charge.)
• Look up. Broken tree limbs may still be lodged in trees, but can easily fall. These are referred to as “widowmakers” with 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 a violent reaction. Consult a professional.

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

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. 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.

For information on job opportunities with STIHL Inc., please go to www.stihlcareers.com. STIHL is an EEO and drug-free work environment.

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