Trees are a beautiful part of a home’s landscaping, but several circumstances call for their removal. When a tree becomes diseased, infested, or is dying; is a threat to your property or a neighbor’s property; or the space it occupies is needed for something else, it may be time to call in a professional. It’s a dangerous task, and even more dangerous if you take matters into your own hands. Why risk it when there are professionals that are trained and better equipped to get the job done safely and correctly?
Risks Involved in Tree Removal
There are many risks associated with removing a dead, damaged, or diseased tree. Some things you should be aware of to avoid harm:
- Weather conditions like high winds or lightning. Even after the inclement weather has passed, the tree should be examined for branches that broke or were weakened by the storm.
- Power lines. If you, your tools, or the tree itself comes in contact with a live wire you could be electrocuted, or at the least, cause a neighborhood power outage.
- Unpredictability. The direction in which a tree falls is not always what is expected. If you take this task on yourself, be sure to plan a path for a quick, safe escape if necessary.
- The tree may be home to stinging insects and poisonous plants.
- Falling from ladders or branches.
- Weakened or dead limbs that may fall on you. Even if a branch appears strong and healthy on the outside, it could be rotten on the inside, and therefore unstable.
- Chain saws, hand saws, wood chippers, ladders, and even cranes are tools of the trade that are very dangerous if used incorrectly.
Why Call a Professional
Now that you know why removing a tree is risky business, you may want to call in an expert.
Successful tree removal requires a great deal of knowledge. Not only are tree professionals educated in the biology of trees, but they are properly trained to use the necessary equipment and should have liability insurance. They are also well aware of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for safety gear. Workers are required to wear the following:
- Gloves
- Helmet
- Protective clothing
- Work shoes
- Ear plugs
- Safety goggles
The first thing a tree professional will do is perform a risk assessment by carefully examining the tree and surrounding area for hazardous situations. One thing they’ll look for is the proximity of energized power lines. They will contact the utility company about grounding the lines before the work begins.
If you have trees or branches that need removing, contact Elite Tree Care at 610-935-2279 for a risk assessment.
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