Don't take risks when you're up a tree!

1. Use the right safety gear

Even for a five minute job, your feet, legs, head, ears, eyes and hands need protection. Safety gear is widely available at power tool suppliers and hardware stores, so make a point of getting what you need.

Before starting any task that involves using a chainsaw, you should be wearing:

• steel-capped boots – ordinary leather boots offer no protection

• chainsaw chaps or trousers

• safety helmet

• at least grade four earmuffs (it only takes a minute for a chainsaw to damage your hearing)

• safety glasses or a helmet visor

• protective gloves, especially during maintenance.

2. Stop and think

Thinking about the task before you attempt it can help reduce injuries. Before you start, make sure you have the right equipment and a safe environment to do the job. Here are some key things you need to remember:

• One chainsaw does not fit all jobs – what’s good for cutting firewood may not be suitable for cutting smaller pieces of timber.

• Only use a chainsaw on the ground, and never above shoulder height.

• Chainsaws are designed to cut wood – never use one to cut other materials.

• Know your skill level – for example, never try to cut down trees, unless you’re a professional.

• Stay alert – if you’re tired, stop and rest.

• Get to know the manufacturer’s safety features.

3. Kickback

Kickback happens when the moving chain at the tip of the bar hits an obstruction or a softer piece of material. This causes the chainsaw to whip back at high speed towards you.

To reduce kickback:

• hold the chainsaw firmly with both hands

• always be aware of the location of the tip of the chainsaw – if possible, don’t let it touch anything

• take care when cutting light material (eg, twigs) that may catch in the chain

• use extreme caution when re-entering a cut

• don’t over-file the depth gauges

• test the chain brake to make sure it works.

4. Sharpen up

Good maintenance reduces the risk of injuries. This is because a well maintained chainsaw is easier to use than one that hasn’t been kept in good condition.

To maintain the chain of your saw properly:

• keep the chain sharp, with the correct cutter angles

• keep the machine well-oiled and properly tensioned

• follow the manufacturer’s specifications for correct depth gauge settings.