While large trees should be left to professional tree service companies and their certified arborists.  With their liability insurance and training, they are the best and most qualified to take on the difficult job of removing large trees.  For tips on how to select the best tree service company in Green Bay WI, please refer to this article.  However, when homeowners have a smaller tree that needs to be removed, due to storm damage, disease, or just aesthetic purposes, here are some helpful suggestions on making the process safer and more efficient.

Chainsaws can be very, very dangerous.  One slip or mistake can cause serious injury or worse.  Follow the manufacturer’s directions for both operations and safety, and take your time.  The tree isn’t going anywhere.  

Assess your ability to remove the tree given surrounding property structures, power lines, vehicles, etc.  Determine if you think you are fully capable of staying safe and ensuring the integrity of these structures.  If you have any doubts, call a professional tree service company.  

When looking at the general area, assess the tree you want to remove.  Note how the tree may fall given the orientation of major branches and the weight that they will pull on the tree as it falls.  If the tree is leaning in one direction, it will be very hard, if not difficult, to get the tree to fall any other way.  Also, note if damage or decay may result in the tree falling in a specific direction.  Also, assess smaller branches that could be removed prior to falling the tree, which will make the process simpler and safer.  

Now back to your chainsaw – it should have a bar that is at least as long as the tree’s diameter.  The chain should be sharp and in good operational condition.   Also, ensure you have adequate fuel as you won’t want to run out during the tree removal process.  Remember to ALWAYS wear eye and ear protection.   A few additional tools, such as a wedge and sledge will make the removal of the tree easier in some cases.