Chainsaws are designed to efficiently cut through wood and are used to prune, fell, and buck trees. As such, they’re inherently dangerous tools. Before using one, it’s paramount that you know what you’re doing. Below you’ll find some safety tips to help you get started. 

How to Use a Chainsaw Safely

1. Wear Protective Gear

When you use a chainsaw to cut an object, debris is certain to go flying through the air from the point of contact. This debris can cause serious injuries to your head, face, and arms. Hard-hat helmets, face shields, and cut-resistant gloves will deflect debris and protect these areas. Gloves will also help you maintain a strong grip on the chainsaw to prevent any slips or accidents.

Remember, too, that chainsaws are loud, so to protect against the possibility of hearing loss, you should always wear ear protection. 

2. Hold It Properly

Always make sure your feet are planted on the ground. Your legs should be shoulder-width apart, with one leg behind the other. Your knees should be slightly bent. This will promote balance, stability, and allow you to move away quickly if you need to. 

Also, keep both hands on your chainsaw and your eyes on its guide bar. If you have to move to another cutting position, or if your attention is needed elsewhere for any reason and for any amount of time, turn the chainsaw off. 

3. Avoid Cutting With the Nose

Cutting an object with the nose, or the tip, of the chainsaw will cause the chainsaw to rebound in the direction of the user. This is called a kickback. When a kickback occurs, the guide bar suddenly and quickly jerks upward and away from the object being cut. 

This can cause the user of the chainsaw to lose control of it, which can lead to serious injury. To prevent the tip of your chainsaw from accidentally touching the object you’re cutting, keep your eyes locked on the guide bar as you work.

In addition to following the above tips, also remember to use high-quality chainsaws to get the job done safely and efficiently. For that, turn to First Quality Power Place. Since 1981, this company has been providing clients all across Middlefield, OH, with high-quality lawn equipment and repair services. Their inventory is always stocked with brand-name equipment. For more information, call them at (440) 632-5068 or visit them online.