Many people prefer to do all of their outdoor work themselves, even including tree work. We feel it’s our duty to caution you with regard to pruning trees, since it’s what we do every day! Most people know that tree removal is a dangerous job, but are unaware that pruning can also be quite hazardous. The following are just some of the precautions we take, with each and every job. And if you’re determined to prune your trees yourself, you should be taking them too.
Assess the job before diving in. Weather is a risk factor that many people overlook before trimming their trees, so take a look at the forecast before you get started. Also, consider any equipment you need, and precautions that must be taken, before you even start working. Plan each step of the process, such as tying off ladders, so that you don’t forget a vital step.
Don’t forget about gravity! It sounds so simple, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t consider factors such as which way limbs are likely to fall when cutting them.
Wear the right protective gear. Tree pruning can be dangerous with regard to sharp power tools, but also for your eyes and vision. If you’re using loud equipment, you will need ear plugs. Safety goggles are a must to protect your eyes from dust, wood particle, insects, and more. Your shoes should have slip-resistant soles, and chaps and gauntlets are mandatory for any chainsaw work. Since falling limbs and debris pose a significant risk, make sure to wear a hard hat. Harnesses and other professional equipment is mandatory for jobs that require you to climb the tree. Finally, protect yourself with pants, gloves, and a close-fitting, long-sleeved shirt.
Don’t work alone. Ask a partner to work with you, so if an accident does happen, emergency services are only a phone call away.
Protect passersby or children who might be playing in the area. Don’t even attempt tree pruning while your kids are playing nearby; you will be too preoccupied to closely supervise them, and it only takes a moment for a child to wander into your work area. Also consider passersby when trimming trees close to the street or sidewalk; put up signs or rope off the area so that no one wanders underneath the tree that you’re pruning.
Inspect trees carefully before climbing. A diseased or weakened tree might not be apparent to the naked eye. The last thing you want is for a support limb to snap while you’re standing on it, using a power tool! Inspect trees carefully for signs of weakness before venturing up into them.
Avoid electrical lines. No matter how confident you’re feeling, never prune trees near or around power lines. Call a professional tree trimming company, or your electrical service provider.
These are just some of the safety guidelines that we practice every single day. As you can see, tree pruning can be risky, and you shouldn’t attempt it without the right gear and precautions. Please give us a call about any work you need performed, and we will be happy to give you an estimate on the job.
