Working with trees is an interesting task but you cannot ignore the risks involved at the same time. There are some important safety tips all homeowners with trees should consider if they are not using tree services and doing it themselves. Let’s discuss!
Faulty Gear
The first and the most important safety aspect of working with trees is using the right gear. There is a huge variety of tools and equipment available out there that can get the job done but safety should be the biggest concern. Before proceeding with a task, you should double-check your equipment, especially if you are dealing with big trees.
Every tool has a limited shelf life. This means that after a certain period of time, the tool will fail to live up to its safety standards. Therefore, beware and make sure you check your gear for any damages or cracks. In addition to that, you should thoroughly inspect the new gear as well as in some cases the tools might come out cracked or slightly damaged. Although new tools coming out damaged is highly unlikely but not impossible.
Swinging Limbs & Branches
When it comes to dealing with big trees, you have to be extra careful. Instead of going straight for the major area, you should reduce the risk of casualties by removing and pruning the big branches. This helps you avoid any fatal situations that might take place due to a huge and heavy branch falling on your head.
Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to dealing with trees is that every type is unpredictable and responds differently. While some might simply fall as soon as you cut the branches, others will remain intact and you will have to put in a lot of effort.
Power Lines Issue
There is a reason certain states do not allow tree plantations close to the power lines. During extreme weather conditions, the bigger trees can easily smash into the powerlines creating havoc. There have been many incidents in the past where trees have struck power lines causing blackouts for days and severe damages.
With that said, working with or near powerlines is perhaps the most dangerous part of working on trees. If the task demands, you should wear special gear and practice extreme safety standards so that you and other people or helpers can walk out unscathed.
Working With Chainsaw
While working close to the power lines is one thing, using chainsaws to prune or cut down trees is another. These machines are extremely fatal and are known to cause permanent injuries. You can easily have your leg or arm amputated if you happen to be even slightly ignorant.
Then again, some states have regulations regarding the use of a chainsaw. Since these machines are heavy, you need to practice balance and stability. You might have seen arborists using chainsaws at huge heights but only because they are trained and possess years of experience.
In addition to that, while working on bigger trees, you will need an extra stretch to reach the limbs above your head. With that said, make sure you are tight and secure to prevent a life-threatening drop.
Insects And Hornets
Finally, insects and hornets can turn an easy job into a nightmare. The last thing you would want is to come face to face with a bee or hornet hive as you move up. Beehives can easily hide in trees depending on the tree type. If the tree happens to be dense, you will find it difficult to locate the beehive.
Therefore, before you take up a tree, make sure it is free of harmful insects and hornets as their bites can be extremely painful for days. If you do come in contact with one, make sure you are properly covered and have a first aid kit available to deal with bites and minor injuries.
Final Word
Working with trees can be made simple, easy, and safe by following the tips mentioned above. Since each scenario is different, it is advised to run an inspection of the tree to help identify and avoid potentially dangerous problems and come up with solutions to problems. However, the best option is to hire professional arborist services Bethesda for anything regarding tree.
