All power tools are potentially dangerous, but you should be particularly careful when operating a chainsaw. Chainsaw blades can be hazardous even when they're not running. Make sure your chainsaw has a blade guard (figure A). Consider getting a carrying case (figure B) to transport your saw safely. When using a chainsaw, keep the base as close as possible to the log (figure C). The saw will tend to move in that direction anyway, and sharp teeth on the base of the saw (figure D) will prevent the blade from moving around much. If you have to work with the tip of the blade, you're putting yourself at risk for kickbacks, which occur when the chain catches on the wood and kicks the blade toward you. If you're using an older saw, consider replacing the chain with an anti-kickback chain (figure E), which has a noncutting tooth that faces the opposite direction of the cut. If the blade begins to kick, the tooth bites into the wood to reduce the kickback effect. Always wear proper safety equipment when operating a chainsaw. First, you'll need a full-face mask. The saw can throw wood chips with a great deal of force, and if you cut through a poison-ivy vine, you don't want it sprayed all over your face. Other safety equipment includes hearing protection, steel-toed shoes or boots, leather chaps and work gloves. Always follow these safety tips: - Never use a chainsaw above your chest level.
- Turn off the chainsaw before you start walking with it.
- If the job requires climbing, hire a professional.
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