Feb 18 β€’ 05:23 UTC πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡ͺ Estonia Postimees

THE SAD TRUTH ⟩ Gardeners are buying chainsaws, but forgetting one critical thing

Ambulance services and experts warn that chainsaw accidents are severe yet mostly preventable, highlighting a concerning gap in safety measures among consumers.

In Estonia, ambulance services and safety experts are sounding the alarm over the rising number of chainsaw-related injuries, which are often severe but largely preventable. Despite the clear dangers posed by these tools, which are among the most hazardous gardening equipment, there's a noticeable discrepancy between consumer purchasing habits and necessary safety precautions. An analysis by Mehka Eesti OÜ indicates that while private customers purchase around 65% of all chainsaws sold, only about 35% of them also invest in essential protective gear like gloves.

This contradiction poses a serious concern as chainsaws do not differentiate between professional and amateur users; they can cause severe injuries regardless of the user's experience level. According to Paap Raid, a member of Mehka Eesti OÜ's management, professionals consistently acquire both the tools and the necessary safety equipment, emphasizing their understanding of the associated risks. In contrast, amateur users often overlook the importance of safety measures, which could prevent tens of injuries each year if basic precautions were taken.

The implications of these findings suggest a need for increased public awareness campaigns focused on safety when using chainsaws. With many people embracing gardening in Estonia, especially during seasons of high demand, it's crucial to educate users about the potential risks and necessary precautions to safeguard against injuries. Enhanced awareness can potentially lead to lower injury rates, ultimately contributing to safer gardening practices across the country.

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