removing screws

[asteroid99]

I have some exposed screws on my stairs where the spindles have been removed. I'm planning on leaving the spindles off, however the screws are pointing out, e.g. the sharp pointy end is sticking out and the screw head is buried in the stairs, so I can't screw them out.
Does anyone know whether you can get a saw sharp/strong enough to cut through the screws?
Or, to try a different angle, anyone know how stairs are constructed - e.g. if I take off the top "layer" of the stairs will the head from the screws for the spindles become exposed?
Hope someone can help!

[sense4all]

In the meantime stick a couple of wine corks on them to prevent injury.

[heathfield]

A fine-toothed hacksaw blade will do the job. It's flexible enough to curve and hold flat against the stair tread as you saw. (And it's made for cutting metal!). You could use a cloth as a handle, or get a cheap plastic handle made for the job, available at most hardware stores.

[asteroid99]

Thanks Heathfield, will try one of those.

Sense4all - very sensible - and what better excuse to open a few bottles of wine!

[markja]

before you open and drink all your wine in one go, get a sanding/flappy disc that fits on your electric drill. i've used one of these to wear down screw tips. a grinding attatchment might do as well..
then sit down, pop a cork and enjoy your wine after doing the job without breaking into a sweat.