Relevant

A safe way to prepare yourself for operating a chain saw is to read the operator's manual and obtain training from someone who is experienced with chain saws. It is very important to become familiar with the recommended safe operational procedures before attempting to work with a chain saw. You could learn the safety information from experience alone but that may have a very high price -- mishap and injury -- and probably isn't worth it.

Be sure that you are in top physical and mental condition when operating dangerous machinery. Medications, alcohol, and similar influencing factors can cause you to be a hazard to yourself and others when working with chain saws. Your chances of injury become much less when you are alert, well-rested, and healthy.

Equip yourself with protective clothing and equipment (Figure 1). Safety goggles, hearing protection, steel-toed shoes, hard hat, gloves, and close-fitting clothing are all advisable when chain saw work is to be done. Chaps are available that are chain saw resistant. They are designed to protect the left side of your leg, where most chain saw injuries occur.