Which of the following is safest when you are finished with a power tool?

When using power tools, safety is paramount, and knowing the proper procedures after finishing with a tool is crucial. The safest practice is to wait until all motion has stopped before leaving the machine. This ensures that there is no risk of injury from accidentally coming into contact with moving parts. Power tools can continue to operate for a short period even after being turned off, and residual motion may occur; waiting until complete cessation of movement helps prevent accidents.

Cleaning the tool immediately can be risky if the tool is still hot or if any moving parts have not fully stopped, potentially leading to cuts or burns. Unplugging the tool while it is still running creates an unnecessary hazard; the tool could kick back or cause injury if not handled properly. Additionally, storing the tool without cleaning can lead to safety issues in the long term, such as rust or malfunction, but it does not address immediate safety concerns after operation. Therefore, the most prudent action is to ensure all motion has ceased to safeguard against unintended harm.