These are the tips that I gathered from the excellent Chainsaw Safety Demonstration by our IDNR District Firester Jeff Harris at the end of August -
- keep your saw clean and the chain sharp
- file the raker blades when sharpening the chain's cutters
- use 91 octane ethanol-free gasoline
- wear protective clothing and accessories
- no one should be within reach when operating your saw
- when felling, everyone should be 2.5 times the tree's height away
- step back and estimate the weight or lean of the tree
- based on the lean, cut from the safe side, away from the lean
- spend the time to look for all the hazards
- plan two escape routes, each 45ยบ off the intended tree fall
- your hinge width should be 80% of the DBH
- your hinge thickness should be less than 10% of DBH
- use an open-face/boring-cut technique
- if tree is thick enough, leave a rear trigger for release
- after cutting the trigger, always walk away on an escape route
- always keep both hands on the saw when it is running
- never cut across your body
- always engage the chain brake when walking or moving
- always lock your thumb on the front handle
- always quit when you feel tired
This isn't a comprehensive list and shouldn't be used as a substitute for professional training. I'll expand this list based on any suggestions.