If you’re a homeowner with trees on your property, you may be tempted to save money by performing tree service tasks on your own. However, DIY tree service can be extremely dangerous and can result in serious injuries, property damage, and even death. In this post, we’ll discuss the hidden dangers of DIY tree service and why it’s important to leave it to the pros.
DIY Tree Service Risks
Attempting to perform tree service on your own can be very risky. Here are some of the most common dangers associated with DIY tree service:
Falls: Tree work often requires working at heights, which can result in falls that cause serious injury or death.
Cuts: Sharp tools like saws and pruners can cause deep cuts that can be difficult to stop bleeding.
Electrocution: Trees that come into contact with power lines can pose a serious electrocution risk.
Property Damage: Without proper training, you can easily damage your property or your neighbor’s property with falling branches or limbs.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the tree care industry has a higher fatality rate than any other industry in the United States. From 2015 to 2019, there were 166 fatalities in the tree care industry, with falls being the leading cause of death.
The American Society of Safety Professionals reports that approximately 200 tree care workers are killed each year while working with trees, and thousands more are injured.
The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) reports that tree service workers are 20 times more likely to die on the job than workers in other industries.
According to a study published in the Journal of Arboriculture:
- 76% of all injuries related to tree work involved falls.
- 61% of tree work injuries involved chainsaws
- 23% involved falling limbs or branches.
- Improper use of tools: Using saws and other tools incorrectly can result in injury or property damage.
- Incorrect pruning techniques: Improper pruning can damage the tree and even kill it.
- Inadequate safety measures: Without the right safety equipment, you’re at risk of serious injury or death.
These statistics highlight the importance of leaving tree service to the professionals, as attempting to perform tree work on your own can be extremely dangerous and can result in serious injury or death.
Common DIY Tree Service Mistakes
Many homeowners who attempt DIY tree service make mistakes that can result in serious consequences. Here are some of the most common mistakes:
The Benefits of Professional Tree Service
Hiring a professional tree service company is the best way to ensure that your trees are properly cared for and that you stay safe. Here are some of the benefits of professional tree service:
Expertise: Tree service professionals have the training and expertise to safely care for your trees.
Experience: Professionals have years of experience working with trees of all types and sizes.
Specialized equipment: Professionals have access to specialized equipment that allows them to perform tree service tasks safely and efficiently.
Safety: Professional tree service companies have safety protocols in place to ensure that no one is injured during the job.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
DIY Tree Service
It’s best to leave pruning to the professionals. Pruning incorrectly can damage your tree or even kill it.
Tree removal should always be done by a professional. The risk of injury or property damage is too high to attempt it on your own.
The frequency of tree trimming depends on the type of tree and its growth rate. A professional tree service company can recommend a schedule based on your specific trees.
The easiest way to get rid of a tree is by hiring a professional tree removal service. They have the equipment and experience necessary to safely and efficiently remove a tree from your property.
Removing a large tree by yourself is not recommended. It can be extremely dangerous and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. It is recommended to hire a professional tree removal service to ensure the tree is removed safely and properly.
The requirement for a permit to cut down a tree varies by location. Some cities or municipalities may require a permit, while others do not. It is recommended to check with your local government or tree removal service to determine if a permit is required.
Yes, tree roots can continue to grow after a tree is cut down. In some cases, the remaining roots can cause problems with other plants or structures in the area. It is recommended to remove the entire stump and roots to prevent regrowth.
An alternative to cutting down trees is to use pruning techniques to maintain the health and appearance of the tree while also reducing the risk of falling branches or other hazards. Additionally, planting new trees or transplanting existing trees to a more suitable location can help preserve the natural environment.
Statistics show that DIY tree service is responsible for a large number of injuries and fatalities each year. Don’t risk your safety or the health of your trees – leave tree service to the professionals. Contact a professional tree service company to ensure that your trees are properly cared for and that you stay safe.
