When a storm strikes hard, fallen trees often leave
a trail of damage.
Clean-up is easier when everyone pitches in to
help, and that sometimes means that people unaccustomed to using chainsaws are
suddenly wielding these useful – but potentially dangerous – tools.
Don’t wait until you are called into action to
become educated on the proper use of a chainsaw. And if you already own one,
but use it rarely, now’s the time for some refresher tips on operating it
safely and efficiently.
Know your limits
If you are a beginner, don’t tackle a task that’s
too tough. Leave the felling of large trees to more experienced users. If many
trees are already down after a storm, you will get plenty of work limbing, or removing branches
from the stem of a felled tree.
Read the manual
If you have access to the operator’s manual, take a
few minutes to read it – and closely follow the instructions and advice
provided.
Starting the engine
When starting the engine for the first time, place
the saw on a flat surface on the ground. Place your right foot in the rear handle
for better support, and keep a firm grip on the front handle with your left
hand. Activate the chain break, activate the choke and then pull the starter
handle with your right hand. Repeat until the engine fires. Push the choke
(half-throttle) and pull until the saw starts, accelerate so that the engine
idles and then release the chain brake.
How to stand
It’s vital to stay in balance. When limbing, stand
with your feet planted firmly on the ground, comfortably apart and at a
45-degree angle to the trunk. Try not to move your feet while in the process of
limbing, and make sure you have ample reach at all times.
Bend your knees
You can avoid back soreness by bending your knees
slightly while cutting, especially in low positions. Try to avoid bending your
back when operating the chainsaw for long periods of time.
Keep your distance
If working in close proximity to others, make sure
you stay at least 10 feet apart, and always alert those around you of your
presence.
Take your time
Stand on the left side of the tree trunk and begin
limbing on the right side. Work calmly and methodically, branch by branch. Saw
with a pulling or pushing chain depending on the direction you apply the guide
bar and how much the branch weighs. Limb the trunk on the right side, top and
left side from the position you are standing. Then move forward carefully to
the next round of branches, and repeat the process.
Moving safely
When you are finished in one area, and moving short
distances, make sure the chain is stationary. Hold the saw firmly, with one
hand on each handle. If moving longer distances, activate the chain brake
first.
Avoid kickback
Kickback can occur if the saw is not handled
carefully. You can avoid the greatest risk of kickback simply by avoiding any
cutting using the tip, or nose, of the chainsaw. Keep you thumbs and fingers
wrapped around the handles at all times.
Take a course, of course!
In most communities, courses in chainsaw use and
safety are offered by equipment dealers and other organizations. Ask us for more information.
Todd Baumer operates E&E
Rental, a Medford-based Power Equipment Sales Company. He is an
exclusive dealer of products from Husqvarna, the world’s largest producer of
outdoor power products.
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