Taking care of trees can make you happy, but be careful if you do not know the proper way. You should always remember to put your safety first, regardless of the size of your tool. We will talk about the right methods of tree pruning and cutting to protect you.
Preparation is Key
Preparing in advance is very important before you start working with a tree. Taking time to review your tools and plan out the job can shield you from serious accidents.
- Inspect Your Tools
Check that every machine is running as it should.Inspect the amount of gas in the saw, work on sharpening it, and run it for a test. It is important to check and clean the pruning shears before you use them. Faulty tools make performing the task more difficult and dangerous.
- Wear Proper Safety Gear
It’s important that you always put on safety gear and clothing. This includes:
- A helmet is important to protect your head if any branches are falling.
- Gloves – Give you a strong grip and keep your hands safe from injury.
- Goggles – Ensures your eyes are free from chippings and dust.
- You should protect your ears, as chainsaws can make it easy to lose your hearing.
- Steel-toed Boots – Your feet will be safer if branches or equipment fall.
- Assess the Tree and Surroundings
Look at the tree carefully. Is it leaning? Is there any sign of dead or cracked branches? Are there power lines nearby? Being aware of the tree and its surroundings helps you plan your pruning and be extra cautious.
Pruning Safety
Tree pruning appears to be safer than felling, but one must still be cautious when doing it.
- Prune in Small Sections
Cut branches in manageable pieces. It stops large limbs from moving or falling in a way that is not easy to predict.
- Avoid Overhead Cuts
Make sure you’re not standing directly below the branch as you start cutting. In addition, make sure you never use ladders or climb trees unless you are trained and equipped with safety.
- Make Proper Cuts
Handle branches so that they stay far away from the trunk. Letting a small piece of wood prevent infections and aid in the tree’s recovery. To keep the bark from tearing, try using the three-cut method instead.
Felling Safety
Since felling a tree is a major job, it should always be treated seriously.
- Clear Escape Routes
While planning the cut, mark two safe escape routes that lead at an angle of 45 degrees from the direction the tree should fall. Sometimes, you may find yourself needing an exit, so a fast exit is essential.
- Make the Right Cuts
Making your first cut a small notch near the bottom will make it easier to fall in the direction you want, followed by the back cut. Doing this, you direct the path and way the mover will fall.
- Use a Spotter
Let someone monitor the animal from a safe place. They tell you if an intrusion gets detected or if someone accidentally walks near the area.
- Work as a Team
When the tree is big, ask for help. If a person is falling, a team can be there to support and provide aid right away.
Post-Felling Safety
When the tree is cut, the job still isn’t done and hazards continue.
- Clear Debris
Branches and sticks around the tree can be dangerous to your feet. Be sure to clear the work area well, particularly if people will be walking close to it.
- Store Tools Safely
Make certain to store chainsaws and other tools safely after you switch them off. Ensure that cleaners are not within the reach of children and pets.
- Dispose of Materials Properly
Take care to use any of these methods properly and legally. Clean up any branches or logs that could be sharp.
Final Thoughts
Pruning and removing trees can be a pleasant experience, but it requires careful safety measures. Never rush, use suitable equipment, and avoid using shortcuts. In case you’re unclear about how to deal with a big or hazardous tree, call an arborist. It is important to be safe when working to succeed.
Stay careful while doing it, and have a great time trimming your trees!
Follow us