Important Safety Instructions

WARNING:

Do not attempt to operate this unit until you have read thoroughly and understand completely all instructions, safety information, etc. contained in this manual. Failure to comply can result in accidents involving fire, electric shock, or serious personal injury.

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

BASIC SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

■Do not operate a chain saw with one hand! Use a firm grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw handles. Serious injury to the operator, helpers, bystanders, or any combination of these persons may result from one-handed operation. A chain saw is intended for two-handed use.

■Always be aware of what you are doing when using the chain saw. Use common sense. Do not operate the chain saw when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

■Stay alert and pay attention to what you are doing. Use common sense when using this unit.

■Keep all parts of your body away from the saw chain when the unit is running.

■Always carry the chain saw by the front handle with the unit stopped and the guide bar and saw chain positioned to the rear. When transporting your chain saw, use the appropriate guide bar scabbard.

■Never let anyone use your chain saw who has not received adequate instructions in its proper use. This applies to rentals as well as privately owned saws.

■Before you start the unit, make sure the saw chain is not contacting any object.

■Stop the chain saw before setting it down. Do not leave the unit running unattended.

■To avoid accidental starting, never carry the unit with your finger on the trigger.

■Maintain the unit with care. Keep the cutting edge sharp and clean for best performance and to reduce the risk of injury. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Inspect the battery charger cord periodically, and if damaged, have it replaced or repaired by an authorized service dealer.

■Keep handles dry, clean, and free of oil and grease.

■Do not operate a chain saw that is damaged, improperly adjusted, or not completely and securely assembled. Chain should stop turning when the trigger is released. If the chain turns after the trigger has been released, have the unit serviced by your nearest Ryobi service dealer.

■Check for damaged parts. Any part or guard that has been damaged should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service dealer unless otherwise indicated elsewhere in this manual.

■All chain saw service, other than the items listed in the operation and maintenance sections, should be performed by your nearest Ryobi service dealer.

■Do not use in the rain, snow or wet conditions.

■Always maintain a proper stance.

■Do not adapt your powerhead to a bow guide or use it to power any attachments or devices not listed for your saw.

■Do not cut vines and/or small underbrush.

SAFETY APPAREL

■Wear snug fitting clothing. Always wear heavy, long pants, overalls, jeans or chaps made of cut resis- tant material or ones that contain cut resistant inserts. Wear non-slip safety footwear. Wear non- slip heavy duty gloves to improve your grip and to protect your hands. Do not wear jewelry, short pants, sandals, or go barefoot. Do not wear loose fitting clothing, which could be drawn into the motor or catch the chain or underbrush. Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.

■Wear eye protection which is marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1 as well as hearing and head protection when operating this equipment.