You may want to remove some trees from your yard for aesthetic reasons. Removal of unhealthy trees may also be necessary to protect your home. However, the removal process itself can pose a threat to your children and pets, and if they wander into the work area, they can create hazards for professionals as well. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to ensure everyone’s safety.
Prepare the Area
Start by removing toys, chairs and any other items from the area that could create a temptation for kids or pets to wander over. This needs to go beyond the immediate site. The “safe zone” should be at least 30 feet from any work.
Talk to Your Kids
Children have a natural curiosity, but that curiosity can lead them into danger when tree removal work is happening. Talking to them about both the work itself and the safety issues it involves should be the first step. Answer their questions while making sure to tell them to stay clear of the site and any of the arborists’ equipment.
Create Barriers
You can’t make your pets understand all this, and children aren’t great at impulse control. Even after conversations with your kids, the tree removal site can be tempting. Keep pets indoors, and put up physical barriers to make it difficult for your little ones to access the worksite.
Talk to the Arborists
The tree service will already have safety protocols in place, but kids and pets can be unpredictable. Be sure to let the workers know that they are around, even if you plan on keeping them inside. In addition, they can explain what safety guidelines they’re following and may be able to suggest additional ones.
No Unsupervised Play
Even with ample warnings and physical barriers, stay on the safe side; keep kids and pets indoors and supervised until the removal is complete. While tree removal companies have equipment that controls falling debris, there’s always a chance that chunks of wood could fly off and injure a child or pet. You may want to plan some indoor activities or outdoor activities away from home for both boisterous children and playful animals.
Clear Up Debris
Professionals will clear away any debris they spot, but do a check yourself before letting the kids and pets back out. It’s a good idea to make sure children are wearing solid shoes with closed toes during the removal process and for a few days afterward to avoid any unnoticed debris left behind.
Tree removal can be a noisy and disruptive process, but by preparing your household in advance, you can remain safe. Clear communication with both children and the professionals working in your yard is key. By following the above steps, you can help make tree removal as trouble-free as possible. When you need tree removal services in Sterling Heights, MI, contact Turbo Tree Care.
