I’ve just wrapped up a conversation with Ron Jacobs, a small business owner from Thunder Bay who spent last weekend clearing fallen trees after the June windstorm. “These machines are basically extensions of our arms out here,” he told me while showing me his now-recalled STIHL chainsaw. “When you rely on something that much, you expect it to be safe.”
Health Canada’s announcement yesterday of an immediate recall affecting thousands of chainsaws and pole saws across the country has sent ripples through both suburban neighborhoods and rural communities where these tools are essential equipment.
The recall targets specific models of STIHL and Husqvarna products manufactured between January 2023 and April 2025, following reports of at least 14 incidents where chains unexpectedly continued to rotate even after users released the throttle trigger.
Three of these incidents resulted in serious lacerations requiring medical attention, including a particularly severe case in New Brunswick where a forestry worker suffered significant injuries to his left arm and shoulder.
According to the recall notice, approximately 12,800 units sold in Canada are affected by what appears to be a defective throttle mechanism that can stick in the engaged position. This malfunction creates what Health Canada describes as “an unreasonable risk of serious injury” to users.
“This isn’t just an inconvenience,” explained Lisa Montour, a spokesperson for the Canadian Association of Tool Retailers. “For many Canadians, especially in rural areas, these tools are critical for property maintenance, firewood preparation, and sometimes even their livelihoods.”
The timing couldn’t be worse for many. Summer storm season is upon us, and with Environment Canada predicting above-average severe weather events across central and eastern provinces, many homeowners were counting on these tools for cleanup work.
At Canadian Tire in Kanata, Ontario, staff were busy yesterday posting recall notices and fielding calls from concerned customers. “We’ve had the phones ringing constantly,” said department manager Terry Williams. “People are worried, especially those who use these tools professionally.”
The recall process itself appears straightforward. Owners of affected models can verify their serial numbers through the manufacturers’ websites and are instructed to immediately stop using the equipment and contact authorized dealers for free inspection and repair.
Both STIHL and Husqvarna have established dedicated support lines and added staff to handle the anticipated volume of inquiries. Wait times for repairs, however, remain unclear given the scale of the recall.
Financial implications extend beyond the manufacturers. Arborists, landscapers, and forestry companies face potential work disruptions during their busiest season. Kevin Desrosiers, who runs a tree service in Sherbrooke, Quebec, estimates this could cost his small operation “upwards of $4,000 in lost revenue” while waiting for his equipment to be serviced.
When I asked about whether alternative tools could fill the gap, Desrosiers laughed. “You don’t just replace professional-grade equipment overnight. These aren’t toys – they’re specialized tools that cost thousands.”
Health Canada’s consumer product safety directorate indicated this recall falls into their highest risk category. “When we see potential for serious injury with everyday tools, we act decisively,” noted regulatory spokesperson Sarah Chang. “The manufacturers have been cooperative, which helps streamline the process.”
The recall database shows this isn’t the first time these manufacturers have faced safety issues. In 2019, a similar but smaller-scale recall affected roughly 3,000 units due to fuel line concerns.
Industry analysts suggest this latest incident may accelerate the adoption of battery-powered alternatives, which typically have fewer mechanical components that can fail. Sales data from Canadian hardware retailers shows electric models gained 8% market share over gas-powered versions in the past year alone.
For Ron Jacobs back in Thunder Bay, the recall comes with mixed emotions. “Of course I want safe equipment, but this is my third summer with this saw and I’ve never had issues.” He’ll be dropping his chainsaw off tomorrow at the local dealer, hoping for a quick turnaround before the next inevitable storm cleanup.
Health Canada recommends consumers check the dedicated recall website at healthycanadians.gc.ca for complete model information and serial number ranges of affected products. The agency emphasizes that continued use of recalled models presents serious safety risks that should not be ignored.
As Canada’s summer property maintenance season hits full stride, thousands of homeowners and professionals alike now find themselves unexpectedly without tools they’ve come to depend on – a reminder that even the most reliable equipment sometimes falls short of safety standards.
