There are two conditions where I just don't use circular saws:

- Old timber or pallets, with the risk of nails etc. in it. If I do
cut this (and I do) then it's checked with a metal detector, then it
goes through the cabinet saw with the chipped blade on it. The saw is
also powerful enough to saw nails cleanly in half rather than jamming,
although thuis is hard on the blade.

- Off the ground, or anywhere where I can't control the reaction or
gyroscopic forces of the saw. That's what big reciprocating saws are
for.

What's this hypothetical situation where there's no alternative but a
circular saw up a ladder ?