LERT BASIC CHAINSAW TRAINING is being offered to LERT volunteers interested in operating chainsaws in connection with LCMS Disaster Response cleanup activities. Such skills provide a critical service to those who do not have the means or skills to perform this dangerous work following a disaster. The training will be held at Heit's Point Lutheran Camp, 28345 Heits Point Ave, Lincoln, Missouri, 65338 on March 5, 2022. Volunteers should arrive at the Camp by 8:15 a.m. to check in. Class will begin at 8:30 am and conclude around 5:00 pm. NOTE: Heit's Point Lutheran Camp is graciously providing lodging on Friday night to any participants who need to arrive the night before. While there is no charge, you MUST reserve your lodging by contacting the Camp Office at 660-668-2363.
You must have previously completed the LERT Basic Training Class to participate in this class. The class is limited to 10 participants. Please pre-register via www.lcms-lert.org prior to February 26, 2022 so that adequate materials and supplies can be secured before the class.
Participants will learn how to handle and clear storm-damaged timber, proper chainsaw operation, along with what qualifies as personal protective equipment (and how to operate it), safety protocol and injury prevention, and proper chainsaw maintenance. Training will include morning classroom training, as well as afternoon field demonstrations and hands-on saw operation by participants.
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.
Participants should bring (if they have them):
- their own chainsaw, along with gas/oil, & bar oil,
- safety equipment, including steel-toe shoes, safety helmet, eye protection, ear protectors, chaps and gloves,
- 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.
- Some chainsaws and PPE will be available for training purposes if you do not have your own.
Cost of Training:
- Due to a very generous grant from the Missouri District of the LCMS, the registration cost has been covered in full. However, participants are to bring (do NOT send monies ahead of time) $16 for the breakfast and lunch meals, which will be provided by Heit's Point Lutheran Camp.
- Snacks will be provided.
Trainer: Mr. Brian Mead of Kansas
Please contact Rev. Karl Gibbs, Assistant District Disaster Response Coordinator, for further information, if needed. He can be reached at PastorKarlGibbs@gmail.com or at 314-910-3905.
