This special project is being run in cooperation with the Canadian Model Forest Network’s outreach program, the Island Sustainable Forest Partnership. Due to the amount of personal time participants invest in courses such as this and the fact that society benefits when people use safe chainsaw work techniques, there will be no charge for the course. However, seats are limited so participants must pre-registration by calling the appropriate District office.

The “cutting firewood safely” course introduces chainsaw users to safety features such as protective clothing, cold and warm starting techniques, safe felling, saw safety trouble shooting and cutting to enhance wildlife habitat. The course consists of one evening and a half-day demonstration on a Saturday.

“Working with chainsaws can be very hazardous unless people take the proper precautions in their woodlots and yards,” said Dan McAskill, Manager of Provincial Forests. “By offering opportunities for people to learn more about the operation of chainsaws, we hope to improve safety standards around our woodlots and homes.”

More information on the courses can be obtained by contacting the forestry district offices at Southampton (961-7296), Charlottetown (368-4800) and Wellington (854-7260).