Forfar clinics to promote safe chainsaw use

Groundcare machinery and services company Gammies has reintroduced its popular Chainsaw Clinic after the rise in sales following recent energy price hikes.

As fuel prices and the cost of living rises, households are opting to use wood in fireplaces and fuel stoves to heat their homes rather than turn on gas and electric heating.

However, around 36,000 people are treated in hospital emergency departments annually for chainsaw-related injuries.

The maintenance clinic, on November 12 and 26 at Gammies Forfar premises, aims to help chainsaw users learn how to minimise the risk of injury by instilling key rules for operating, and maintaining equipment safely.

The practical and free clinic will offer demonstrations and insights into chainsaw maintenance, cleaning, safety and storage with their team of experts.

Les Gammie, company director, said: “We reported a positive increase in sales figures this year, particularly our chainsaw sales, due to storms early in the year and the rising cost of oil and gas. We ran very successful clinics earlier this year, and, seeing a huge increase in chainsaw sales, we recognised the need to reintroduce the clinics to ensure new users have important safety guidance and maintenance tips to get the most from their chainsaw.

“The majority of our customer base is industrial and agricultural but it’s chainsaw purchases for personal use where we are seeing the biggest uptick. For new users, safety is paramount. We have the know-how and provide the best tips and tricks to avoid accidents and get the most from your chainsaw and we’ll be sharing all at the clinics.”

Launched in 1968 by Allan Gammie, Gammies has more than 50 years’ experience supplying products and services for horticultural, agricultural and groundcare tasks.

The drop-in clinics will run from 8am-12pm. Visitors will experience demonstrations and sessions as part of a group or one-on-one time with experts and learn about the company’s range of equipment including battery powered saws. Special offers on maintenance equipment will also be given on the day.

Gordon Edwards, area sales manager, added: “Everyone is looking for cheaper ways to heat their homes and burning wood is absolutely one of the most cost effective ways in today’s financial climate. With increased reliance on chainsaws, the need to look after them properly has increased too. Good chainsaws should work well for 10-20 years but this really depends on how much time and energy is invested into looking after them.

"It’s imperative that chainsaws are looked after properly to avoid any unwanted replacement costs. That’s exactly why we’re offering these clinics to ensure our clients have the right tools and guidance to maximise the life expectancy of their chainsaws.”