“Timber” and “Tree Falling” echoed numerous times while Goffstown CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) put their chainsaw training to the
test. Following three hours of classroom instruction, the team walked out to a wooded parcel for hands on chainsaw cutting with technical instruction. By the time the training was over, any participant who wanted to was able to experience first hand how to fell a tree or cut fallen wood.
On Saturday, May 30th, 2009, twenty CERT members met at the Transfer Station where the Goffstown Department of Public Works hosted the training by offering a garage set up with tables and chairs for the
classroom instruction time. The class, taught by Brent Beebe of Plymouth NH, was sponsored by NHLGC, the town’s insurer for medical and risk management. CERT Director Susan Jutras explained the large turnout and interest in the chain saw training class: "Back in July 2008 an EF2 Tornado touched down and affected nine towns in NH. Volunteer NH contacted Goffstown CERT to assist in clearing fallen trees that were obstructing the roads. A half dozen CERT members gathered chainsaws to head down to Deerfield to help with cutting trees only to be told we needed to be certified for liability purposes. Goffstown CERT held this chainsaw training so that the 20 or so members that attended the training will received their certification so the next time we get called upon, we will be ready."
During the morning session instruction time, the CERT members consisting of 11 men and 9 women, learned about the personal protection that is strongly recommended for tree cutting. The chainsaw that would be used that day was taken apart to show how to adjust the chain, clean the bar, sharpen teeth, oil and grease it, clean and change the air and fuel filters, and what fuel to use.
After a luncheon provided by NHLGC, CERT members trekked out to fell a large dead pine tree behind the Transfer Station. That was the opportunity to witness what the films and Power Point demonstrations of the morning explained. After determining where to drop the tree and the size of the wedge cut, the instructor cut the tree while others watched in earnest. The tree fell where as anticipated, amid a round of applause from onlookers. CERT members then practiced bore cuts and
cut down a trees. Each member who took a turn donned chaps, leather gloves, safety glasses, and a hard hat with face shield and ear protection. Every tree or cut attempted was completed safely and accurately under the tutelage of the instructor. “I learned a lot of new things today. I’ve had experience cutting trees but I learned a few new pointers” said Butch Brodeau. John Moore, who practiced bore cuts on a stump and cut down a tree, explained “I learned some new safety tips. It was a very good class.”.
Goffstown CERT members are continually learning new ways they can help their neighbors and serve their community. They have been fulfilling requirements from Homeland Security to complete more FEMA on line courses, along with local training such as Shelter Management from the Greater Manchester Chapter of the American Red Cross. For more information about Goffstown CERT, visit their website at: www.GoffstownCERT.org.
-Contributed by Meridith Suitor, CERT Team Member
For more great CERT photos, visit DaveSuitorPhotography
