How To Maintain A Tree Before Hiring An Arborist

Keeping your trees healthy and properly trimmed, and in some cases totally removed, is important to any household. But keeping your trees in top shape can be a slightly dangerous prospect. There are many things you need to keep in mind, and many tools that can be used to ensure your safety and health. A licensed arborist will have all of the necessary gear and know how, but sometimes there is something to be said for self-sufficiency and doing it yourself. If you intend to trim and maintain your own trees, keep all of these simple safety tips in mind.

Power Lines

Never trim a tree that is close to a power line. It is illegal in most states to maintain a tree that is seated near or under an active power line, so while you may want to maintain your own trees, in these cases it is always necessary to contact a tree trimming specialist. Making a single mistake near a power line can be deadly, and most states require that at least two licensed professionals handle this dangerous task.

Hazard Inspection And Safety Harness

Always perform a hazard inspection before attempting any kind of tree maintenance. This will keep you aware of any potential danger associated with the work you intend to do. Level the ground where you plan to use a ladder, because you will be engaging in a lot of rocking movements that can cause an unstable ladder to fall to the ground. If at all possible, use a tree climbing or maintenance harness to ensure absolute safety against falling. Never work in bad weather, it is better to wait until later in the season than risk possible weather hazards.

Proper Tool Use

Some of the tools you will be handling during your tree maintenance tasks can be deadly, so treat them with respect and care. If you intend to use a chainsaw, make sure that you are properly trained in its effective use, and that the equipment itself is well maintained. Always use goggles, gloves, boots, and a hard hat, you never know when chips or branches will break loose and cause personal injury. If the task is too difficult or dangerous, never forget that there is a licensed tree removal expert right around the corner who can help you. Never climb with tools in your hand, instead have another person hand you the tools, or use an appropriate work belt.

Tree Direction

If you are removing the tree in its entirety, make sure you have correctly ascertained the direction the tree will fall. Always coordinate the cutting of the tree so it will fall within your safety zone. Leaving the correct amount of “hinge wood” where you have cut the tree will ensure a gradual and controlled fall. Sometimes, the tree will be under pressure from another object, or the direction it is leaning, so be sure to make small cuts to relive it before cutting it down completely.