As fall approaches, you may be gearing up for warm nights by the fire. However, before you can stoke the fire, you'll need enough wood to last throughout the night. If you plan to cut down trees on the property, picking up a log splitter from an equipment rental company will help you complete the job quickly and easily. Below are several strategies to help you stay safe and use the device efficiently.

How Can You Operate a Log Splitter Properly?

1. Wear Safety Gear

A log splitter uses powerful machinery and sharp blades, so put on protective gear before operating it. Wear a long-sleeved shirt or jacket and long pants to protect your skin from wood chips and splinters. Shield your eyes with goggles and put on thick gloves. Avoid wearing jewelry or baggy clothing, and tie back long hair before working. Also, wear closed-toed shoes with strong toe boxes, as this will protect you if a log falls on your foot.

2. Secure the Machine

Most yards are not completely flat, so your workspace is likely on a slight slope. Log splitters are powerful and can shift during operation, which can send chunks of wood in different directions. To avoid this danger, place it on the flattest area of your property and set some blocks behind the wheels or on either side of them. This way, if the machine shifts due to the recoil, it won’t roll toward you.

3. Load It Correctly

When loading a log into the splitter, make sure it is cut squarely. If you have pieces that are slanted, they can tilt or fly off the machine when they are split. If you’re trying to switch to splitting logs vertically or horizontally, you’ll need to adjust the device to accommodate the new position. Once you do, lock the machinery in place before operating it. If you’re having a hard time splitting the logs, position them slightly off-center. The center of the tree has the densest wood and is therefore the hardest to split.

If you need help turning your trees into fireplace fuel, contact Central Tool Rental of Cincinnati, OH. This equipment rental center carries top brands, and they’ve been helping customers find the right tools for over 38 years. Whether you need a generator, carpet cleaner, or scaffolding, they have an inventory of high-quality, dependable items for every project. Visit them online for more information about their equipment rentals. Call (513) 733-2020 to speak with a team member.