Method for operating a combustion engine

A combustion engine (1) has a carburetor (17) for supplying an air/fuel mixture. An intake channel (16) is formed in the carburetor (17) and fuel is drawn into the intake channel because of the underpressure which forms during operation. The fuel quantity, which is drawn into the intake channel (16), is controlled at least in part by an electromagnetic fuel valve (23) which is open when no power is applied thereto. The engine (1) has a device for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber (3) of the engine and a stop switch (74) for switching off the ignition. Furthermore, a control unit (20) and a device (75) for energy supply are provided. A method for operating the engine (1) provides that the fuel valve (23) is held in the closed position by the control unit (20) after the stop switch (74) is actuated.