Leading up to the 2006 hurricane season, Service Villa will be showcasing some of the must-have tools and gadgets to make preparing and surving all aspects of a hurricane easier.

Tool #1: Echo CS 360T Chain Saw
The Echo CS 360T Chain saw from Echo USA is a compact, gas-powered chain saw that you can easily carry when trimming your trees before a hurricane. The chain saw weighs only 8lbs yet manages to power the chain at 55 mph. This will allow you to cut through tree limbs at record time (be VERY careful not to cut yourself or someone else).

If this chain saw isn't your cup of tea, when looking for a new chain saw for hurricane season keep the following in mind:

• Is the chain saw gas-powered? you will not have electricity after a hurricane to perform any necessary clean up.


• Is the chain saw easy to carry? a heavy and clunky chain saw will become uncomfortable no matter how strong you are.


• Is it safe? Does the chain saw contain any vibration reducers? Remember, vibration can cause muscle fatigue that could lead to damaging effects on your nerves in the future.