What are the main chainsaw hazards?
Kickback, when the tip of the bar catches and the saw jerks back toward you, is a leading danger. Others include cutting your leg or hand, being struck by falling limbs or trees, tripping while holding a running saw and noise and vibration over time.
Understand that most injuries happen to people who are tired, rushed or working beyond their experience.
Do not cut with a saw that you have not been taught to use. Ask an experienced friend or a trained instructor to show you safe starting, holding and cutting positions.
- Kickback from the bar tip
- Leg and hand cuts
- Falling limbs and widow makers
- Fatigue, noise and vibration
What protective gear do you need?
Wear a helmet with face and ear protection, eye protection, cut-resistant chaps or pants, gloves, and sturdy boots. Fitted clothing prevents snagging. Check that each piece is made for chainsaw work.
Replace chaps after they have been cut through, since the protective layers are used up.
Check the area for hazards before you begin: dead limbs overhead, uneven ground, wet or icy patches and people nearby. Keep a wide clear space around you and a planned path to step away.
How do you keep the saw in good condition?
A sharp chain cuts cleanly and is less likely to grab. Keep the chain tension right, the bar and chain oiled, and the brake and chain catcher working. Read the manual for your model and keep fuel fresh.
Start the saw on the ground or another firm, safe spot, never held in the air. Make sure the chain brake works every time.
Fuel the saw only when the engine is cool and away from sparks, and move away from the fueling spot before you start. Use fresh fuel mixed as the manual says.
What are safe cutting habits?
Stand firm with both hands on the saw and a clear footing. Keep the bar tip away from anything solid, and watch the tension on the wood so a pinch does not trap the blade. Never cut above shoulder height.
Clear brush around you and plan an escape route. Take frequent breaks and stop when you are tired. Keep bystanders, children and pets well away.
Be wary of tension in logs and limbs. A trunk bent under load can spring or pinch the saw. Think about which way the wood will move before you cut.
- Two hands, firm footing
- Do not cut above shoulder height
- Clear the work area and plan a retreat
- Stop and rest when tired
When should you hire a professional?
Felling large trees, trees leaning on structures or power lines, storm-damaged trees under tension and anything high off the ground are jobs for trained people. Never cut near power lines. Call your utility.
A certified arborist or a licensed tree service can assess the job. Ask about their insurance and training first.
Ask an arborist or forestry agency about safe ways to handle hung-up trees and leaning trunks. Never walk under a tree that is hung in another tree.
What about storm cleanup?
After storms, trees and limbs can be under tension, tangled with wires or unstable. Injuries rise during cleanup because people rush. Look for hanging branches and damaged trunks, and stay far from downed lines.
Ask your emergency management office or utility about safe cleanup and any local rules. Work with a partner.
Keep spare gear, fuel and a first aid kit in an area that will not be buried by debris. Work with someone who can call for help if needed.
What should you do after an injury?
For a serious cut, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth and call 911. Do not remove deep objects. Keep the person lying down and warm.
Always work with a phone and a first aid kit nearby, and tell someone where you are cutting. Take a chainsaw safety class if you can.
Training courses on chainsaw safety are often available through forestry agencies, extension offices and community colleges. A day of instruction is a small price for confident hands.
- Press firmly on bleeding
- Call 911 for deep cuts
- Keep a kit and phone close
- Take a hands-on class
Key takeaways
- Wear a helmet, face and ear protection, chaps, gloves and boots.
- Keep the saw sharp, oiled and in working order.
- Use two hands, firm footing and never cut above shoulder height.
- Leave big, leaning or wire-tangled trees to professionals.
- Work with a partner and a way to call for help.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.