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Nine Essential Chainsaw Safety Tips This Winter
There’s nothing better than throwing a log on the fire to keep warm during these long winter nights. But we all know there’s so much work that goes into getting everything ready for your fire, which is why our STIHL Specialists have shared their top nine essential chainsaw safety tips for chainsaw use.
1. Choose the Chainsaw that’s right for you
To start, you need to select the right chainsaw for the job. Whether you prefer petrol or Battery, we’re always more than happy to help!
2. Protect Yourself
It is important to wear the right safety gear to protect your head, ears, eyes, hands and legs. We recommend safety glasses, earmuffs (if using a petrol chainsaw), along with protective chaps or trousers and safety boots with plenty of grip. A safety helmet is advised if there is a risk of falling objects like branches.
3. Check Your Saw
Always remember to check your chain tension and sharpness and ensure the chain break is operational before you start your chainsaw. Regular servicing at any of our STIHL Specialists will ensure your chainsaw is in peak condition all year long. STIHL recommends a minimum of one service each year, just like a car.
4. Organise Your Workspace
Before you start cutting, clear the area of any trip hazards. When cutting firewood use a sawhorse; this also saves bending down and reduces the risk of running the saw chain in the dirt, which will blunt and shorten the life of your chain.
5. Handle With Care
Maintain a firm grip on the saw by holding the handles with both thumbs gripped on the opposite side from your fingers. Never ever use a chainsaw with only one hand.
6. Power Stance
Never stand directly behind the chainsaw. Keep a solid stance with the chainsaw slightly to the side so that you can read the STIHL on the guide bar. This may seem unnatural, but if the saw kicks back it stays clear of your body (see point 9 for kickback definition).
7. Firing Up
The safest way to start your chainsaw is on the ground. Never drop start a chainsaw as this is extremely unsafe and could lead to injury. Check the chain brake is engaged, adjust starting controls and pull the start cord. Your local STIHL Specialist will run through the starting procedure with you.
8. Full Throttle
Always make contact with the wood when the chain is at full speed. If the chain speed is too slow it may pull you in towards the wood and put you off balance.
9. No Kickbacks
The most dangerous part of the bar is the tip. If the tip of the bar comes into contact with the wood it may cause the bar to ‘kick back’ which will shoot the bar up towards you. The safest part of the bar for cutting is the area closest to the engine. Let the chainsaw pull you slightly towards the wood and apply slight downwards pressure.
For more information on Chainsaw Safety this season, visit us at your local STIHL Specialist.
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