Removing a large tree may seem like a simple process, but it's quite complex in reality. It requires an in-depth understanding of tree cutting techniques, physics, biology and proficiency in using dangerous tools like chainsaws and hatchets.

Attempting DIY tree removal is outright dangerous. You'll be risking your personal safety as well as the safety of your loved ones and property. Below are four dangers of DIY tree removal you should know about. 

Gravity and Miscalculations

When cutting down a tree, you risk making miscalculations regarding the tree's height and where the tree will fall. And once the tree starts to fall, you have no control over where it drops. Even trying to influence its direction using ropes may not work as the fall happens within seconds. 

DIY tree removal becomes even riskier if you're removing a tree near your house or a powerline. If the tree falls on your home, that could cause massive damage, which may not be covered by your insurer. And, if the tree falls on a powerline, you risk electrocution or causing a blackout in your neighbourhood. 

Falling Injury

Tree removal often involves cutting down the branches first. This means you will need to climb the tree and work at a high height. You'll be doing this while carrying heavy tools such as chainsaws.  

One minor misstep while up there is enough to send you falling to the ground. You may also not be able to identify weakened or damaged limbs, adding the risk of a fall if you happen to step or support yourself with one. 

Risky Chainsaw Handling

Chainsaws are super effective for cutting down trees if you know what you're doing. But without adequate skills on how to operate them, they can be extremely dangerous.

The biggest risk is that chainsaws usually deliver a 'kickback' where the saw bounces back to the operator upon hitting a knot or thickening on the wood. This often happens abruptly, so you don't even have the chance to react. 

If you didn't have complete control of the chainsaw, you could end up with severe injuries or a permanent disability. There are even cases where people have died from mishandling this tool. 

Decaying Wood

Your tree may look healthy on the outside but be completely rotten inside. Such a tree is unstable and may easily collapse without warning. Therefore, even if you hadn't planned to remove the tree, the situation will undoubtedly require it. 

However, removing such a tree is even riskier. You don't know the extent of decay inside, so you can't estimate at what point it will fall. Thankfully, professional tree removers have extensive knowledge of biology, which allows them to know the severity of decay and how to remove the tree safely. 

Investing in professional tree removal eliminates all these risks and ensures that your tree is taken care of safely.