While the details can vary slightly from brand to brand, the basics of using a log splitter, whether gas or electric, are pretty much the same.  To start with, you need to dress appropriately. Mike Saice, Parts & Service Program Manager at Northern Tool + Equipment, cautions that “Proper footwear is crucial. Crocs and sandals are a no! A boot or shoe with an enclosed toe is necessary; a safety toe is recommended” Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Tuck the shirt into your pants to prevent dangling fabric at the waist, and fasten the cuffs. Saice also cautions that it’s important to go further with protection: “Purchase the proper safety equipment, including ear protection—log splitters, especially gas-powered models, can be loud—safety glasses that completely cover your eyes, and sturdy work gloves."  Be sure any pets and children are safely away from the area where you’ll be working. Your log splitter should be on level ground with at least three feet of clearance on all sides. This helps prevent the tool from tipping or rolling over while in use, and gives you enough space to work comfortably. Use bricks or a block of wood to wedge the log splitter’s wheels—if it has them—in place so the device can’t roll or move unexpectedly. If using a gas splitter, make sure it has enough fuel. Plug in an electric model.  Turn on the log splitter. A gas splitter usually has a pull-cord, while an electric log splitter might just have a switch.  Now it’s time to load your log. The wood should be cut off as squarely as possible—not jagged, uneven pieces of wood—and positioned on the bed of the splitter with the far end of the log against the splitter’s backplate, not against the wedge.  Activate the log splitter, which depending on your model, might be a lever or a switch.  Keep clear of the wedge while it does its work splitting the log. Never use your foot or hand to hold or steady the log while the wedge is in motion. Most electric or gas log splitters automatically retract the wedge and reset the hydraulic valve after splitting the wood. If yours does not, reset the valve manually. Remove the split pieces of wood from the log splitter bed.