Short answer
Wear eye protection and gloves, hold the trimmer with both hands, never cut above shoulder height for long, isolate power before clearing a jam, keep bystanders away, and follow your manual. If anything feels wrong, switch off.
Before you start
- Read the manual and learn the safety switches.
- Inspect blades, guards and handles.
- Check the hedge and ground for obstacles, wires and nests.
- Keep children and pets away.
While cutting
- Use both hands and keep your body clear of the blade.
- Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height for long; use stable access.
- Do not use in wet weather or near water with electric tools.
- Take regular breaks: vibration and fatigue cause mistakes.
Clearing jams
Stop the blade, wait until it stops, then remove the battery, unplug it or disconnect the spark plug cap before touching the blade.
Electrical and fuel safety
- Corded: use an RCD and keep the cable behind you and away from the blade.
- Battery: use the correct charger and do not use damaged batteries.
- Petrol: refuel outdoors with the engine off and cool, and store fuel safely.
Kit guidance: PPE for hedge trimming.
If someone is injured
Switch off, call emergency services for serious injuries, and apply first aid.