Tree Removal: How to Safely Remove a Tree

Removing a tree yourself is not an easy or safe job. The slightest mistake can damage properties or harm people, even yourself. So follow these tips and guidelines for a safe tree removal. The first thing you should do before cutting a tree is to examine it. You will have an easier time if you do. Before starting, answer the following important questions: Does the tree lean in a specific direction? Are there broken, diseased, or dead branches? Is there a clear area where the tree can fall safely, without damaging any property? Are there any branches from other trees that are in the way? Once you have the answers to the questions, plan a quick an easy escape route. If things do not go as you've planned, you have to be able to get as far away from a falling tree as fast as possible. It's a prudent idea to quickly run behind another tree if the one you're cutting does not fall as it should. Follow the steps below to increase the efficiency and safety of your tree removal task: 1. Knock the tree with an ax. If you hear a hollow sound, the tree might be dying or already dead. If you hear a solid sound, it is alive and would be harder to cut. Do so at different heights and points. If you're lucky, you will spot an area which will make cutting the tree easier. 2. Figure out where the tree will fall. Determine if it has a tendency to lean. It is best and easiest to choose a dropping zone that is where the tree wants to land naturally. As much as possible pick a level area. Otherwise, the tree might move, bounce, roll, and case injuries or damages. 3. Make a nice horizontal cut. This cut must be higher than your hips; and it must extend no more than 1/3 of the way into your tree. Bear in mind that it will fall perpendicularly if you make a horizontal cut. 4. Make a nice wedge cut that resembles a slice of orange. Whether you make the slice from the bottom or top of the horizontal cut, place a stick on the other side of the cut to guarantee a straight wedge cut. 5. Make a nice back cut. This will determine the thickness of your holding wood, which is the piece of wood that determines how your tree will fall. Try to make the holding wood as thick as possible. Determine where you want this cut to end and mark it on your tree. Ideally, this cut should be at least 1 1/2 inches above the horizontal cut. As you make this cut, put a wedge to prevent your tree from settling onto your chainsaw. 6. Be ready. As you finish the back cut, you should have an even holding wood. Otherwise your tree will start to fall. As necessary, add more wedges. Get yourself ready to run. 7. Run! When your tree is beginning to fall, use your escape route. Keep your eye on the tree while it goes down. This will greatly lessen the risk of being severely injured.

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