It’s tempting to try DIY work to save money, but it can often do more harm than good. DIY tree care can cause severe damage around the home, especially if you lack the training and tools to do the work safely. Performing the work yourself can lead to costly damage and possible injury. Before attempting any DIY work, consider the possible hazards associated with any DIY tree care.
Some DIY tree care hazards include:
- Being struck by branches – It’s difficult to tell where a tree branch may fall. If you lack proper training in this area, you may cause branches to fall on things below the tree, which can lead to heavy damage or injury. Most people lack the knowledge to identify warped or cracked branches, which is a catalyst for unexpected damage.
- Falls – Any work that requires the use of a ladder is often best left to professionals. Not knowing how to position a ladder can lead to a dangerous fall. Propping the ladder on unsteady ground to get more reach will also make the ladder unsteady. Professionals are expertly trained to keep their footing steady and possess additional equipment to save them for shorter falls.
- Electrocution – As trees grow, their branches can eventually get tangled in power lines. Serious injury can occur if you accidentally touch or cut a wire while attempting to trim the branches. The coating on power lines is only used for waterproofing, not as insulation. Electrocution is possible, should you come in contact with the wires.
- Eye injuries – When tree care professionals work, they wear safety gear, including eye protection. Cutting a tree can send debris (e.g. sawdust, wood chips, etc.) flying. Goggles and other protective clothing keep professionals safe from any debris-related injuries.
- Lacerations – Improper use of saws and other cutting tools can lead to lacerations. A homeowner may not know how to use these tools properly, and it’s easy to lose control of a saw. Professionals are armed not just with the knowledge of handling these tools, but also with keeping them in good repair. This prevents any additional issues with equipment.
- Animal-related injuries – Trees are home to insects like bees or wasps. Working on these trees can disturb hives and cause pests to retaliate. Raccoons and squirrels will also occasionally nest in trees and will attack if they feel threatened.
DIY work is potentially dangerous if you are not properly trained on cutting or trimming trees. Always contact a professional for your tree care services.
Great Northern Regreenery provides clients with quality tree services. We offer skilled arborists that are committed to safety and efficiency. Call us today at (905) 775-7444 for service to York, Simcoe County, and surrounding regions. We offer a free initial inspection and assessment.