Landscape trees need some TLC that comes in the form of pruning and trimming. These gardening techniques are critical for the overall health of the tree. If done correctly, it can benefit the tree for the years to come. However, when a tree has reached its final days, there is no other choice but to eliminate it completely. Tree removal is a task best left to a professional because of the risks it involves. Accidents can happen if you tackle tree removal without the proper knowledge of the procedure.
Below are some of the most common accidents you can face while cutting down a tree:
- Getting Struck
Being struck by a falling object while cutting a tree is perhaps the most common mishap that a homeowner can face while performing the task. Often, it is a branch or a limb that accidentally falls and causes injury.
- Accidental Fall
Another common accident during tree cutting is falling off the tree. The one taking down the tree can get off-balance and fall off the ladder. It can also happen if you’re trying to access limbs without using proper safety harnesses.
- Electrocution
You may encounter overhead obstructions such as power lines when cutting down a tree, and you can be at risk of getting electrocuted. You may accidentally touch the wire and get knocked down because of shock. For this reason, it is never recommended to tackle tree jobs near power lines. It is too risky and can put both you and your property in grave danger.
- Impact Injuries
Tree cutting requires the use of equipment, but there are times when the equipment fails to function well. For instance, the lift mechanism can malfunction, or a climbing rope can break and cause the equipment to pin against a structure. The impact can cause injuries on you and anyone on site.
- Cuts
When cutting a tree, you will use sharp equipment such as the chainsaw, and it is very common to get cuts as a result of improper use of the equipment.
- Amputations
If you are not skilled in using handheld power tools such as chippers can lead to amputated fingers and worse. Be sure to check the equipment prior to using it to make sure it is in good condition and will not malfunction.
- Eye injuries
Debris and sawdust can cause eye scratch, corneal abrasion, or cut to the eye. Injuries, as such, can be avoided by using personal protective equipment such as eyeglasses and goggles.
- Scrapes
If you come up with a tree without wearing long-sleeved clothes, your bare skin can get in contact with the bark and lead to scratches.
- Stings and Bites
Trees are home to various species of animals and insects. Cutting the tree will disturb these living creatures, and they can attack anyone nearby. Squirrels and raccoons may bite if they feel attacked. There is also the danger of bees and wasps that can sting in swarms.
- Poisoning
Be wary of poisonous plants such as poison oak and poison ivy. It can be tricky to identify these plants because they tend to camouflage among other trees.