In general, tree care is hazardous work. However, tree removal is much more dangerous. Successfully tree removal requires the skills and knowledge of certified arborist in tree physics, biology, tools, cutting techniques, and more. Homeowners in Whidbey Island who attempt to remove a tree on their own can become injured by falling limbs, malfunctioning equipment, or the tree itself. That’s why Westcoast Tree Care would like to provide you with the following reasons you should never attempt to cut down a tree on your own.
Common Tree Care Removal Risks
Power Lines
Trees near power lines are risky and it’s important to always assume that the wires are live. If you, your tools, or the tree itself hits a power line, you can not only knock out the power in your entire neighborhood, you can also become electrocuted. This can cause severe injury and even death. Never assume that just because a power line has a black coating that it is insulated. This is simply not true. The black coating on power lines is only a weather-proofing material. You can still be electrocuted if touched.
Improper Equipment
A certified arborist wears protective gear from head to toe for a reason. Certified arborists are also trained professionals that have a working knowledge of chainsaws, ropes, cranes, and more to safely fell and remove a tree. Not only would a homeowner need all this equipment, but they would also need the required expertise to use in order to perform a successful and safe tree removal. Without it, they run the risk of injury, property damage, and even death.
Dead & Decaying Wood
A sick or dying tree often decays from the inside out, making it extremely dangerous and unpredictable. When this happens a certified arborist often has to use cranes to remove deadwood. If you think a tree on your property is starting to decay, it’s important to contact a professional to have it removed before it falls without warning. A certified arborist understands a trees biological process in order to remove it properly. That’s why professional help is always recommended.
Gravity
When a tree falls during a DIY removal, it’s impossible to know where exactly it will fall. Even more, it may not fall the way you want it to even if you carefully use ropes or cut indentations. Poor homeowner judgment can result in extensive property damage or harm to nearby people. In short, you should never attempt to remove a tree on your own. It simply isn’t worth the risk, and it will likely cause more problems than it solves.
Westcoast Tree Care
If you have a tree that needs to be removed in the Whidbey Island area, contact Westcoast Tree Care at 1.800.767.8733. Our certified arborist will be able to determine the best way to safely remove your tree and provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote.
