For plans, use an internet search engine (e.g., Google), type "Wheelchair ramp plans" for numerous results. The Minnesota Ramp Project at www.wheelchairramp.org makes available a manual and video which include plans with a material list for a modular ramp system that requires no in-ground posts and can be built off site usually in a day. Their site also contains information on permits, building codes, funding, and safety.
For construction help, you might contact the local high school agriculture education teacher or FFA chapter advisor. These chapters are often looking for community service projects to undertake. Other local entities that might help build (or fund) a ramp include civic clubs (e.g., Lions, Kiwanis, Rotary), Young Farmers, building-trades unions, churches, and other faith-based organizations.
For funding help, monies might be available through your local Area Agency on Aging (you do not have to be elderly to use their services). To contact: By phone—look in the white pages for "Area Agency," look in the yellow pages under "Government, U.S," or look in a separate section in front of the white pages that lists government offices. On the Web—go to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Web site (www.hhs.gov); scroll down to "HHS Family of Agencies;" and click on "Show Details" then on "Administration on Aging;" under Elders and Families, click on "Find Local Programs;" then type in your ZIP code, city, or county, and click on the "Search" button.
The Minnesota Ramp Project at www.wheelchairramp.org has a funding section, and another good source for funding is Vocational Rehabilitation or Rehabilitation Services, etc. (titles vary by state). By phone—look in the yellow pages under "Government, State" or in a separate section in front of the white pages that lists state government offices. On the Web—go to www.agrability.org and click on "Resources" then "Vocational Rehabilitation contact information."
A significant issue with one handed chainsaw use, which is being practiced by a few, is kickback. Every chainsaw operator will eventually experience kickback or a pinched bar. The injuries to the face from kickback can be significant and even can occur with an anti-kickback mechanism in place. Another behavior that occurs with one handed use is "swing through" that occurs when an operator cuts through a limb, and the saw swings down and makes contact with the leg. Considering these potential incidents, two items of personal protective equipment are essential, a helmet with a protective face shield and chainsaw chaps, which you frequently see with chainsaw artists who often saw with one hand. Protective equipment is available at most large chainsaw dealers.
Listed below are three companies that can custom-manufacture or have off-the-shelf man-lifts adapted for accessing boats by either mounting the lift on a large boat or on a pier. They are:
• SS Products, of Tempe, AZ—By phone @ 888-224-1425 or on the Web @ www.coachlift.com and click on "Other Handicapped Lifts."
• Life Essentials, of Brookston, IN—By phone @ 765-742-6707 or on the Web @ www.lifeessentialsweb.com.
• Glide 'n Go Power Seat Lift, made by Access Unlimited, of Binghamton, NY (by phone @ 800-849-2143 or on the Web @ www.accessunlimited.com and click on "Other Vehicle Products).
* Note: When modifying a boat or other water craft for use by someone with a mobility impairment, extra precautions are needed to reduce the risk of injury. All state and federal boating regulations should be followed, including having an adequate number of personal floatation devices available.