There is nothing like a statuesque tree to beautify your property. It provides a shady haven for you and allows squirrels and birds to frolic in its branches. Still, growing plants will also pose a danger when they’re sick or dying, especially as things deteriorate.
In this post, Greenacres Tree Service, the ultimate tree service in Sylvester, GA, breaks down what to do when a tree’s structural integrity fails. They’ll explain more about the emergency response measures and when to go with a hazardous tree removal.
Assessing the Situation
Your first step with a hazardous tree is to complete a proper risk assessment. It’s best to hire a professional, as an arborist evaluation will look at:
- Signs of distress: Are there visible fungi, abnormal growth, brittle branches, and large sections of dead bark? These are all factors in ailing structural integrity.
- How the tree leans: Assessing the angles aids in planning the felling approach. Where possible, arborists work with the tree’s natural slant because it is more inclined to fall that way. You’ll remove obstacles from its path.
- What obstacles there are: Your arborist will also survey the surrounding area for problematic power lines, other trees, and structures. They can then plan the removal to minimize the risk.
Using Proper Tools and Equipment
The next step before hazardous tree removal would be to secure the right equipment – chainsaws, axes, and ropes, as a start. Your normal tree pruning equipment won’t do. That’s why most people hire tree care professionals.
Establishing a Safety Zone
On the day of the tree felling, your arborist will create a designated safety zone as follows:
- Mark the area: They’ll mark out the removal area using cones or caution tape.
- Keep bystanders away: You’ll need to warn your neighbors and family to steer clear. It may also be wise to put a sign up outside for people passing by. It’s not wise to have an audience.
- Create an escape route: Arborists will clear a path so that they can get away from the tree as it begins to fall.
Following Proper Cutting Techniques
With trees, large and small, it’s essential to use precise, controlled cuts to prevent accidents:
- Begin with the branches: Remove the small branches to reduce the tree’s weight. That’s safer, as it is easier to control a lighter tree.
- Controlled felling: The team will guide the tree so that it starts falling in the right direction. Careful cuts help. Start with a V-shaped wedge cut until about halfway through, then back-cut to let gravity do the rest.
- Monitor things carefully: It’s important to watch out for cracking sounds and unexpected movements to get to safety quickly. That planned escape route could save your life.
Contact Our Team for Professional Tree Services
Avoid the risks of hazardous tree removal! Your safest bet is to hire a professional arborist with all the equipment and expertise to handle these types of removal projects safely.
Do you need other advice, like when to trim back trees? Our friendly team is happy to help. Call Greenacres Tree Service at 229-881-2538 today!
