A pole saw as the name suggests, is a saw at the end of a pole, used for trimming trees. There are electric and non- electric types available in the market. In the electric type, the power source could be, gas, battery or electric mains. There are times when you would have to cut thick branches, vines or shrubs which are at a height. In such cases, you can prune using a ladder or call for external help. This is when a pole saw comes in handy. Using a pole saw you can prune up-to a height of 14 feet. Apart from that, a pole saw can also be used to reach across objects like a hedge. Light pruning can be done using a non-electric pole saw but for heavier pruning, it is always advisable to opt for the electric one.
However, working with a pole saw is not an easy task, you need to take the necessary safety measures in order to prevent any injuries or mishap. First of all, it is important to understand that when professionals are trimming trees, they use ropes and pulley systems to slowly descend the wood to the ground. But when you are using pruners or pole saws, the wood falls uncontrollably which could cause damage.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are working with a pole saw:
- Make the work area clear: Clear the area in which you are going to work. Keep people and property away.
- Use protective gear: Make sure you are well equipped with protective gears such as eye goggles, insulating hand gloves, hard hat, and work boots.
- Wear appropriate costumes: Do not wear loose fitting clothes or jewelry because there are high chances of them getting tangled up with the saw. It is advisable to wear well-fitting shirts or jackets.
- Do not work near power lines: Make sure there are no power lines in the vicinity of the tree which you are cutting
- Select the branch: Select the branch that you want to cut, extend the pole to the required height.
- Plan before you cut: Even the removal of a single branch requires many preliminary cuts to reduce the weight of the wood, before the final cut. Try to make cuts on the horizontal surface of the branch which you are cutting.
- Position the saw firmly: Hold the saw in a vertical position, then reposition it to your cutting spot, with its weight resting on a branch.
- Position yourself properly: Stand at a place where the end of the tool is at your chest level. You should hold the saw at an angle.
- Make a groove: Make sure the first strokes are slow and in control, try to cut perpendicularly to the branch. This will create a groove in the wood which will guide you later.
- Finishing the cut: Once the saw is placed securely in the groove, you can increase your stroke speed. Check on the branch constantly, especially when it is about to fall and take safety measure if needed.