Fall Is Chainsaw Season: 8 Safety Rules Before You Make the First Cut
Fall in Northern New Jersey brings colorful foliage, cooler temperatures and plenty of outdoor cleanup. Whether you're cutting firewood, clearing fallen branches or tackling overgrown trees, a chainsaw can make difficult work considerably easier.
But there's something every homeowner should remember: A chainsaw is one of the most powerful—and potentially dangerous—tools in your garage.
Before you fire yours up this fall, here are eight safety rules worth reviewing.
1. Dress for the Job
Chainsaw safety starts before the engine does.
Wear chainsaw-rated protective chaps or pants, eye protection, hearing protection, sturdy non-slip boots and appropriate gloves. A helmet is important when overhead hazards are present, although overhead cutting should be left to trained professionals.
Regular jeans are not a substitute for chainsaw-rated protective clothing.
2. Inspect Your Chainsaw
Before every use, check the chain tension, sharpness, lubrication system and overall condition of the saw. Make sure the chain brake functions properly and inspect the guide bar and chain for damage.
A poorly maintained chainsaw isn't just frustrating to operate. It can also increase your risk of injury.
3. Understand Kickback
Kickback occurs when the upper portion of the guide bar nose contacts an object, or the chain becomes pinched, potentially forcing the saw suddenly upward and backward. Always know where the tip of your bar is positioned.
Avoid contact with the kickback zone, maintain a firm two-handed grip and never rely on the chain brake alone to protect you.
4. Start It on Solid Ground
Never drop-start a chainsaw. Instead, follow the manufacturer's recommended starting procedure, with the chain brake engaged and the saw properly supported.
Make sure the chain is clear of surrounding objects and that nobody is standing nearby.
5. Keep Both Hands on the Saw
Your right hand belongs on the rear handle and your left on the front handle, even if you're left-handed. Maintain secure footing, keep the saw close to your body and avoid awkward cutting positions.
Never operate a chainsaw above shoulder height or while standing on a ladder.
6. Watch for Hidden Tension
Fallen trees and branches can store tremendous amounts of energy. A limb that's bent, pinned or supporting another section of a tree can spring unexpectedly when cut.
If you cannot confidently identify where the wood is under tension or compression, stop and call a trained professional.
7. Keep Your Work Area Clear
Remove tripping hazards, establish an escape route when appropriate, and keep children, pets and bystanders well away from the cutting area.
Never operate a chainsaw near electrical lines. Contact the utility company or a qualified professional.
8. Know When to Call a Professional
Not every chainsaw job belongs on a homeowner's weekend checklist.
Large trees, storm-damaged trunks, hanging limbs, and trees leaning toward structures require specialized training and equipment. Knowing when not to make the cut is just as important as knowing how.
Safety Is Always the First Cut
A well-maintained chainsaw is an incredibly useful tool for fall property maintenance. But experience, preparation and proper protective equipment matter every time you use it.
Before your next project, take a few minutes to inspect your equipment and review safe operating practices. And if your chainsaw needs a little attention, the team at Power Place can help with chain sharpening, maintenance and the right safety equipment.
Work smart. Stay safe. And make every cut count.
