Trimming trees can seem like a simple task, but it requires considerable know-how, so it’s best to leave complicated trimming work to the professionals. If you do want to try some trimming yourself, take these safety precautions to make the process go more smoothly this fall.

Reduce the Risk of Injury Before Winter Arrives

One of the top reasons for trimming trees in the fall is to prepare for winter weather. Though snow is rare in autumn, you’ll still see wind and storms that can impact your trees, breaking off branches and increasing the risk of injuries and property damage. It’s in your best interest to clear out any broken or weak branches and look out for other problem areas before the colder months.

Make Sure You Have Proper Equipment

You may not realize that there are several important tools and supplies that you need in order to trim trees properly. If you plan to undertake this task yourself, make sure to have the following:

• Pruning shears for cutting smaller branches
• Loppers to tame larger, hardier branches
• Heavy-duty gardening gloves or more durable landscaping gloves for tough tasks
• Protective eyewear to prevent injury from falling branches
• A sturdy ladder, properly braced to let you reach higher branches safely

Monitor Weather Conditions

Select a day when the weather is going to be mild. Avoid trimming when the winds are strong, on rainy days, and when it’s unseasonably hot. Be sure to take breaks as necessary and have plenty of water on hand.

Check for Nearby Hazards

Look around the ground and near the top of the tree for potential hazards. If you have electrical lines that might block your access or have branches fall on them while you’re trimming, you need to call in an expert arborist.

Use Common Sense and Don’t Overestimate Your Ability

As you’re working on your tree, be careful not to brace yourself on weakened branches or tree limbs. Ask a friend or family member to assist you by staying nearby in case you need a helping hand, or something goes wrong. Avoid cutting branches that are directly overhead, and work as slowly and carefully as possible.

Tree trimming is often difficult, and it requires attention to detail and using the appropriate safety measures. When you need help with your tree trimming and other tree services at your home this fall in the Woodside, CA area, reach out to our arborists at Urban Tree Management.