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With energy costs on the rise, it's likely many homeowners will spend more time warming up in front of the fireplace this winter. But cutting firewood can be dangerous, if proper precautions are not followed.

Darrell Rubel, OFBF director of youth and safety services, offered several tips for staying safe as landowners fire up the chainsaw this season.

"One of the best things you can do is plan your day with safety in mind," he said.

Rubel said it starts with dressing properly. Avoid loose fitting clothes that could get entangled in the saw and wear shoes with non-slip soles. A hardhat, safety glasses and earplugs are also recommended.

Before operating a chainsaw, it's important to read the owner's manual. Firmly grip the handle to guard against kickback. Small or loose limbs are most likely to cause kickback, so cut those with an ax. Stop the saw when carrying it from one tree to another.

Rubel said it's also important to remember to lift heavy pieces of wood using your knees and not your back.

"Take a break, rest up. Don't just keep working until you're bone tired," he said.

Rubel added that a chainsaw should never be used when children are in the area, because their movements are unpredictable. He said a lot of it comes down to common sense.

"If you think it's dangerous. It probably is," he said.

Caption: Pat Asbell of Central Power Systems gives a chainsaw demonstration at this year's Paul Bunyan Show in Athens County.