Description
The Nebraska District is offering Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) BASIC CHAINSAW TRAINING on February 25, 2023. This training is intended to increase LERT volunteer’s skills, knowledge and safety in chainsaw operation so they can provide a critical service to those who do not have the skills or means to perform this dangerous work following a disaster. The training will be held at Lincoln Lutheran High School, 1100 N 56th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68504 on February 25, 2023. Participants should arrive at the site by 8:15 a.m. to register. Class will begin promptly at 8:30 am and conclude between 4:00 and 5:00 pm.
You must have previously completed the LERT Basic Training Class to participate in this class.
******* The First 10 registered for this class as cutters will be excepted with all others attending part one (classroom only) of the training. ***********
During the training, participants will learn:
- Safe operation of a chainsaw
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Injury prevention
- How to buck and limb storm damaged trees
- How to properly clear debris in safe and beneficial manner and
- Proper saw maintenance.
The training will include a morning classroom lecture which is open to all LERT qualified volunteers, even if they do not plan to handle a chainsaw. The afternoon hands-on field chainsaw operation training is limited to 10 participants who will use chainsaws. People who would like to attend who only plan to be limb draggers are also welcomed for the morning session, but will not be required to participate in the field portion of the training. However, they will not receive the chainsaw operator certification.
To be an authorized LCMS LERT Chainsaw Operator and use a chainsaw on LERT disaster responses sites, you must attend BOTH the morning classroom and afternoon "hands-on" sessions. The cost of the class is $30.
Afternoon hands-on participants should bring (if they have them):
- Chainsaw, bar oil, gas/oil or synthetic fuel mix,
- Chaps and other Personal Protective Equipment (helmet, eye protection, ear protectors, gloves, and steel-toe boots).
- Participants must wear steel-toed boots. Tennis shoes or sandals/flip-flops are not allowed in the afternoon field session.
- Outdoor work clothes and boots appropriate for the weather at the time. Shorts are not allowed.
- A limited number of PPE will be available for training purposes if you do not have your own.
- Those under the age of 18 will not be allowed to operate a chainsaw.
Training Costs:
- Both Morning and Afternoon Sessions (LERT qualified Chainsaw Operator) - $30.
- Pay at the time of training.
- Snacks and lunch will be provided.
Trainer: Brian Mead of Kansas
Please contact Mick Onnen, Nebraska DDRC (402) 364-3370 for further information.
