What is a key safety practice when handling tools on a slope?

Keeping the cutting edge away from you is essential for safety, especially when handling tools on a slope. This practice minimizes the risk of injury, as it ensures that if the tool slips or if there's a loss of balance, the edge will not come into contact with your body. This precaution is crucial in maintaining safe handling techniques, particularly in environments where there is an increased risk of falling or slipping, such as on a slope. This practice reinforces the importance of operating tools carefully to prevent accidents and injuries while working in wildland fire scenarios or similar conditions.

In contrast, carrying the tool in the hand closest to the edge could lead to a higher risk of it slipping and causing an accident. Wearing protective gloves is important, but it does not specifically address the risks associated with using tools on a slope. While working only on flat terrain might seem safe, it is often impractical in wildland operations where slopes are common. Thus, maintaining proper tool orientation is a critical component of effective safety practices.