Emergency Response Procedures
STOP WORK IMMEDIATELY.
These procedures apply to all crew members, without exception.
1. Secure the Scene
- Shut down all saws, machines, and moving equipment
- Establish a safe perimeter around the incident
- Control bystanders and traffic if needed
- Do not create additional victims
2. Assess the Situation
- Is the scene safe to enter?
- Is anyone injured, trapped, or unconscious?
- Is there uncontrolled bleeding?
- Are utilities involved (power lines, gas, water)?
3. Call for Emergency Services (911)
- Delegate one person to call 911 immediately
- State: “We have a tree work injury.”
- Provide exact address or GPS location
- Describe injuries clearly and calmly
- Do not hang up until told to do so
4. Provide First Aid (If Trained)
- Stop severe bleeding (tourniquet / pressure)
- Keep injured person still and warm
- Do NOT move spinal injury victims unless required
- Do NOT remove impaled objects
- Follow dispatcher instructions exactly
5. Aerial Rescue (If Applicable)
- Only trained personnel perform aerial rescue
- Do NOT rush or improvise
- Secure ropes, saws, and falling hazards
- Lower climber only when safe and controlled
6. Post-Incident Actions
- Preserve the scene if safe to do so
- Document events while fresh
- Report incident to company leadership
- Do not resume work without clearance