Chainsaw Safety

Chainsaws are one of the highest risk tools a homeowner can operate. Combine the tool itself with the act of felling a tree and you have a real safety concern. According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, there are about 28,000 chainsaw injuries each year, and most are to the legs and knees. The average chainsaw injury requires 110 stitches. All that being noted, running a chainsaw to clear your fallen oak need not be all that scary, as long as safety rules are followed. Here are some tips to help you operate a chainsaw safely.

What to wear
Always wear chainsaw protective chaps, helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, and closed-toe boots (preferable leather). Gloves and a face shield screen are recommended

How to start it
Start the saw on the ground or secured between your legs ONLY. No drop starts; chainsaws are not yo-yos. Always use two hands. The handles are there for a reason. By the way, chainsaws are meant for right-handed operation only. There is no such thing as a left-handed chainsaw.

How to operate it
Engage the chain brake whenever you are taking more than one step in any direction and whenever you are not cutting with the saw. Always run the saw below the level of your shoulders. Anything higher is too dangerous and must done with a pole pruner or by a professional climber. Start cutting with the base of the bar and use dog teeth if possible. Using the tip may lead to kickback, which can cause serious injury or death. Run the chainsaw on the right side of your body. Do not lean across the cut path of the saw.