This is a critical decision to take, owing to the importance of cutting down a tree as well as the hazards involved in accomplishing this task.

The important part that may prompt the cutting down of a tree involves the presence of deadwood on the tree, which is hazardous in its self, if the situation is left to persist. Another reason is the possible interference with power lines, an unproductive tree and so on.

Below are the crucial steps to take when felling a tree:

a) Collect everything that you need: gather together the materials that you require to cut down the tree. First in the list is a well prepared power saw in terms of power, correct length of bar, a sharp chain and a full tank of fuel or gas and don’t forget the oil. Bring together the protective gear to enhance the protection of the eyes, the ears, the legs and the feet. A wedge which will determine the direction of the falling tree and an axe.

b) Check any danger that might be lurking: the overall appearance of the tree is supposed to be examined carefully by walking around it to check on the appearance of the branches and an estimation of their weight, the direction which the top part of the tree will fall. The close checking of the tree must be able to help you note any loosely holding barks, any dead wood, any cracks appearing, and debris and so on, that may pose potential danger.

c) Ensure that you remove any branches that are bound to interfere with your job.

d) Assess the bottom area of the tree: this is quite important for it will aid you in detecting any notion of instability along the root area, any other long uprooted trees, and the proximity of the roots to the river and so on. Hold the tree firmly in a bear hug, looking upwards, carefully assessing the trunk, and then ensure that the area where you are working is cleared.

e) Get the sound effect of the tree: this will help you to ascertain the age of the tree. Using the axe, aim at the trunk and hit the tree; sharp sound shall indicate a live tree, a hollow sound shall indicate an old tree while a muted sound shall indicate a dead wood.

f) Determine the fall position: ensure that the direction you choose is the same direction that the tree is leaning to naturally.

g) Determine your escape area: ascertain a 45 degree path away from the tree as well as the fall position.

h) Make a cut: a horizontal cut which should not exceed the height of your hip.

i) Make a wedge cut out of the tree

j) Make the final cut taking care of the thickness of wood that is bound to hold the tree before falling.

k) As the tree indicates signs of falling, make good your escape, but your back should not face the tree.

We hope you find this guide useuful and know now more about the topic of how to cut down a tree.