NINE ESSENTIAL CHAIN SAW SAFETY TIPS THIS WINTER

1. CHOOSE THE CHAIN SAW THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

To start, you need to select the right chain saw for the job. Whether you prefer gas, electric or battery, your local STIHL Dealer is 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 gas chain saw), along with protective chaps or pants 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. Ensure the chain break is operational before you start your chain saw. Regular servicing at any of our STIHL Dealers will ensure your chain saw is in peak condition all year long. STIHL recommends a minimum of one service each year, just like a car.

4. ORGANIZE 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 use a chain saw with only one hand.

6. POWER STANCE

Never stand directly behind the chain saw. Keep a solid stance with the chain saw 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 chain saw is on the ground. Never drop start a chain saw 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 Dealers 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 ‘kickback’ 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 chain saw pull you slightly towards the wood and apply slight downwards pressure.