gemniii
Addicted to ArboristSite
Here are a couple of video's that help to explain the forces involved. Stand to the left side of the saw, keep your left elbow locked if you can, and keep your fingers wrapped completely around the handlebar, dont cut with the tip etc, are all things you can do to help lessen the chances. Wear a helmet and chaps, dont cut alone, dont cut when your tired are also best practices. Finally, dont be afraid to say it looks like too much for you to handle if you think it is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37xodIuufaQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2arMD1ITJ4
Beat me to it with the links - aren't the SEARCH and GOODLE features of the internet GREAT!!
And to those naysayers about "don't practice kickback". I believe you should always practice what you can under controlled safe conditions, so when something happens you can quickly regain control.
An excellent example is driving on ice. Untold numbers of accidents occur around the South, because of limited experience. I grew up and drove on frozen lakes and ponds. I've experienced 3 panic situations with other drivers swerving in front of me on slippery roads where I've gone into skids, had the passengers so scared they stained their pants. A simple two flips of the wheel and I was fine.
I used to take my kids to local iced over parking lots, until the cops started cracking down.
Bottom line - practice for the unexpected. Like everyone that operates a chainsaw should be able to do first aid.