Carelessness

[crokett]

I was finally cleaning up from taking the tree down back before Christmas. I had my hatchet and was breaking down the brush into smaller pieces so they fit better in the trailer. One piece was not as solid as it appeared and the hatchet went right through it and took a chunk out of my boot. Had I been wearing sneakers it probably would have been my foot.

This was just stupidity on my part but is a reminder that even if you are using a non-powered tool you can still get hurt. Keep your various parts out of the way of the tool.

[Ed62]

Been there, done that.

Ed

[MilDoc]

Repeat after me - chop away from yourself. (Did similar with a knife too often to count).

[Uncle Cracker]

Keep your various parts out of the way of the tool.

Yes, especially your various parts...

[cabinetman]

Repeat after me - chop away from yourself. (Did similar with a knife too often to count).

Good point. It seems self evident, but not always put into perspective. Cutting with knives and chisels in a direction away from the body provides more control. Adding to that, a sharp tool is safer than a dull one, requires a lot less effort, and provides cleaner work.

Screwdriver and power driver use should also be evaluated for safety by keeping hands and fingers out of the way in case there is any slippage. That phillips bit in a power driver makes a star shaped hole in your hand if it slips off and your hand is in the way. DAMHIKT. If there is any doubt about the safety of a procedure, it's time to re-evaluate the method.
.

[Richard in Smithville]

I have received more nicks from non powered tools than powered. Glad to see you're okay Davey.

[crokett]

Repeat after me - chop away from yourself. (Did similar with a knife too often to count).

Oh I know that. Just forgot to watch where my feet were this one time...

Ever see those lumberjack competitions where they are up on the log with a monster doublebladed axe chopping between their bare feet?