You’ve all seen the safety warnings that are listed as the first page or two in the instruction manual that accompanies every new tool. And if you’re like most people, you’ve probably only glanced at them in your enthusiasm to get that tool unpacked — if you’ve read them at all.

It’s unfortunate the overly litigious society we live in today has prompted the need to paste a warning label on every available square inch of just about everything we pick up. Unfortunate not because the warnings aren’t valuable, it’s just that we are so inundated and overwhelmed with them that we often don’t give them the attention they deserve.

Safety warnings are, however, there for a reason. Some are generic in nature, and some are very specific to that particular tool. And while many may seem like simple common sense, always remember that ignoring even the most basic of them can result in serious injuries, literally in the blink of an eye. So take a moment to review some of these common power tool safety precautions, and keep them in the back of your mind the next time you’re hard at work.

1. Protect your eyes. When using any kind of power tool, wear safety glasses or an eye shield. If you are relying on your own prescription glasses for protection, talk with your eye doctor or eyeglass provider to be certain the lenses will provide the necessary level of protection.

2. Protect the rest of you. Don’t wear loose or ragged clothing. Don’t wear a necktie. Be very cautious of jewelry, which can easily snag on moving equipment. Don’t work barefoot, or in loose or open-toed shoes. Keep long hair contained.

3. Never use a tool that’s broken. Common sense again, but remember that duct tape is not the proper solution for everything that occurs on a construction site. If a tool housing is cracked; if a cord is worn or frayed; if a part is missing or only partially attached — don’t use the tool! Take it in for repairs, or discard it altogether if it’s not cost-effective to repair.

11. Avoid accidental starting. When servicing or adjusting the tool or changing bits or blades, unplug the tool first. It just takes a second, and can prevent serious injury if a switch is accidentally activated.

12. Secure cutting bits and blades. Make sure that bits, blades or other changeable cutting equipment are properly installed and secured, and that chuck keys, wrenches and other tools are removed and stored away prior to starting the tool.

13. Read, understand and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Finally — read your instructions. You may think you know how to use that tool, but the instruction manual contains a lot of very valuable information.

Remodeling and repair questions? E-mail Paul at paul2887@ykwc.net.

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