One rule you’d drill into every new logger

[Alan]

If you could teach a new logger one do this every time rule before they touch a saw or gear, what would it be, and what problem does it prevent.

I’m thinking the kind of rule that feels boring until the day it saves you, like a quick saw check, PPE habit, a way you approach the work area, or how you handle fuel and bar oil before you start.

Drop your one rule and the why. If you want, share the mistake you see beginners make that your rule would have prevented.

 

[FanLaNorne]

I drill “chain sharp and chain tension check every time you fuel up.” A dull loose chain is where half the headaches start, and it’s usually why a saw feels sketchy or starts cutting crooked.

 

[BrahneRaza]

My rule is clear your feet and your escape path before the saw goes to full throttle. Even for bucking. It prevents the slip and trip stuff that feels stupid until you’re holding a running saw and your boot catches a branch.

 

[What]

Look up, truly look up, pay attention to everything you see up there. Wind, tree lean, heaviest side for branches, other trees it is likely to get caught up in, etc. You may want to walk past that tree, and go fall others, then come back to it, easier than a hangar.

 

[Three rings]

Same rule I’d stress: never rush the first cut. Most injuries happen when people skip setup checks or get impatient and taking 60 seconds upfront prevents hours of regret later.