Stay on the uphill side when limbing a fallen tree.

Yes. Stand on the uphill side of the log so the trunk is between you and the chain. Work from the base toward the tip, and never cut above shoulder height.

On flat ground, position yourself so the saw’s bar is on the opposite side of the log from your body. That way if it kicks back, the log takes the hit, not you. Keep feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and never lean into the cut.

Cut sequence matters: start with the bottom limbs first, cutting from the underside to avoid pinching the bar. Move up to the top limbs, but only cut what you can reach without overextending. Use the saw’s lower part of the bar (the “sweet spot”) for control and to reduce kickback risk. Always engage the chain brake between cuts and when repositioning.

If you have to cut a limb under tension (like a sprung branch), cut it from the pressure side, not the tension side, or it’ll snap and take the saw with it. And if a limb is thicker than your forearm, consider not cutting it at all — leave it or get a