How to Operate a Chainsaw

Operating a chainsaw can be dangerous and strenuous work. Never attempt to use a
chainsaw until you are familiar with its hazards and special safety requirements.

1. Look at the area where you are going to work, before fueling your saw. It is critical
to have room to do your job safely. This means watching for overhead power lines
and obstructions, nearby cars and buildings, and escape room from falling trees or
limbs for the saw operator.
2. Recognize the four normal cuts that you may make with a chainsaw. Each of these
type cuts have considerations and cautions which need to be addressed. Felling a
tree on a power line will always be disastrous. Felling on a neighbor's house will at
least lead to hard feelings.
3. Fill the gas tank with the correct fuel/oil mixture, which is typically one gallon of
gasoline with 4 to 6 ounces of two-cycle engine oil. Because chainsaws are two-cycle
engines, they do not have a lubricating oil supply, and they will burn up quickly if the
correct fuel is not used.
4. Note that there are two filler caps on your saw, near the throttle handle. The larger
cap will be for fuel, and the smaller for bar lubricant. Fill the bar lube tank, check
both caps to ensure that they are tightly installed, and place the saw on a flat
surface. This is especially important for cranking very large saws, since the blade will
commence turning as soon as the saw starts and revs up.
5. When you have completed your cutting operation, allow the saw to cool down before
storing. Often it is a good idea to drain out the fuel and oil before storing since these
may leak out and are flammable materials. The engine can be ran one last time to
empty the carburetor after you drain the fuel tank, this will keep the remaining fuel
from gumming up the fuel system over long term storage.
6. Keep the chainsaw bar and chain covered when not in use. A case is the best bet to
protect both you and your saw.

Warnings
1. Do not operate a chainsaw without all recommended safety items. Gloves,
goggles, hearing protection, long sleeve shirts and long pants are the minimum.
New saws often come with a hard hat, also, to protect from falling debris or limbs.
2. Store fuel and lubricants in approved containers, away from the cutting area.
3. Never operate a saw that isn't in good working condition. The brake, chain guard,
and other safety features are for your protection.