firewood season?

is cut from the tree, so proper seasoning (drying) of all firewood is required to have an efficient, clean and safe wood-burning stove or fireplace.

Although some wood species start out drier, and dry more quickly, proper seasoning of any species takes months. Also, wood needs to be cut-to-length and split for proper seasoning to take place.

If potential firewood remains in log form, almost no drying will occur.

Even wood bought as "dry firewood" from a dealer and sold as ‘seasoned’ firewood is often not as dry as it should be. There is no risk of over-drying your firewood.  Drier is better,

Ideally, firewood piles should be covered and stacked so as to be open to drying winds. The warm summers in Tennessee ensure that firewood that is cut-to-length and split in the spring will be ready to burn in the fall.

Chain Saw Safety

With the cooler temperatures of winter approaching, many of us are beginning to stoke the wood stove or enjoy evenings by the fireplace. Many people are injured each year cutting trees or logs for firewood. The chain saw is a dangerous tool when proper precautions are not followed. Listed below are safety tips to remember when using a chain saw.

- Carry the saw by the handle only.

- Cover the saw blade with a plastic or wood guard when not in use.

- Inspect trees carefully for loose limbs (widow-makers) and rot before the cut.

- When felling a tree, choose an escape route away from the direction of fall before starting to cut. Be sure there are no distractions.

- Wear heavy shoes or boots with non-skid soles.

- Clean around the tree or log so that the chain does not catch on anything.

- Leave the chain saw on the ground while starting the engine.

- Keep a firm grip on the chain saw handle and keep the guard (dog) tight against the tree or log. Brace your body against the engine handle so that if the saw pinches, you will be pushed rather than struck.

- Shut off the engine when moving from one place to another.

- Use wood, plastic, or magnesium wedges when felling a tree or cutting a log. They are lightweight and will not seriously damage the chain.

- Stop the chain before wedging. If the wedge touches the moving chain, it may break the chain, causing the saw to kick back or the engine may stall.

- Avoid cutting limbs above waist height. Remove these limbs after the tree or branch is on the ground.

- Use ear plugs or headsets to protect against 100 decibel or higher chain saw noise levels.

- For safety in the woods, wear a hard hat made of metal or plastic, eye protection goggles, nylon protective leg chaps, heavy shoes or boots and light non-slip gloves.