Do you have a tree on your property that is either dead or at a high risk of falling down? If so, you'll likely want to have the tree removed before it falls down on its own. Here are some tips for removing a tree so that you can stay safe

Identify The Hazards

Start by evaluating the tree to figure out what the hazards will be before you cut it down. Look at everything the tree could potentially fall on and what the danger zone radius could be. There are actually smartphone apps that will help identify how tall a tree is and where the danger zone will be, making it clear what is in the potential path of the tree if it comes down in the wrong way.

Get The Right Tools

You'll need a variety of different tools to get the job done. It starts with all of your safety equipment, such as a helmet, safety glasses, steel toe boots, and work gloves. You'll also need a chainsaw that has a bar length that is longer than the trunk of the tree. If the tree has a lean to it, a throw line can be used to help guide the tree to fall down in the proper direction. Wedges and an ax are useful to help control the direction the tree will fall.

Plan Your Escape Route

It's important to have a clear plan on where you are going to escape when the tree starts to fall. You should make sure that the path is clear and that there is not anything that you will trip on during your escape. You should also never turn your back towards the tree when you are escaping since you want to have eyes on it in case the tree changes directions unexpectedly.

Create The Correct Cuts In The Tree

There is a proper technique for cutting down a tree so that it falls in the correct direction. The first open-faced notch that you make will be in the direction that you want the tree to fall. This is followed by a back cut that creates a hinge on the rear side of the tree, located slightly above the notch on the opposite side of the trunk. As for the exact placements and size of these cuts and notches, it really depends on the thickness of the tree's trunk, so do your research to make sure that you get it right. 

To learn more, contact a tree removal company.