14d • General discussion
Just some random tips
The "Golden Rules" of Safety
The 3-Point Rule: Always maintain three points of contact with the tree (e.g., two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) while moving. Move only one limb at a time.
Never Trust Dead Wood: If a branch has no leaves (in season), missing bark, or fungi growing on it, assume it will break under your weight.
Check the Weather: Avoid climbing in high winds, rain (slippery bark), or if there is lightning nearby.
Ground Inspection: Before ascending, circle the tree to look for hornets' nests, poison ivy, or power lines touching the canopy.
2. Identifying a Safe Tree
Best Species for Beginners: Look for hardwoods with strong, broad branching structures like Oak, Maple, or Sycamore.
Trees to Avoid:
Brittle Wood: Willows, Poplars, and Bradford Pears often break unexpectedly.
Dead/Dying Trees: Look for cracks in the trunk, deep cavities, or heaving roots at the base.
Pine Trees: Can be messy with sap and often have brittle dead branches lower down.
3. Gear & Equipment (Technical Climbing)
No Spikes: Never use climbing spikes (gaffs) on a live tree unless you are removing it. Spikes puncture the cambium layer and can kill the tree.
Helmet is Mandatory: A falling branch the size of a finger can cause serious injury from height.
Static vs. Dynamic Rope: Use static ropes (low stretch) for tree climbing. Rock climbing ropes (dynamic) are too stretchy and make ascending difficult and dangerous in a tree context.
Cambium Saver: Use a friction saver or rope sleeve where your rope passes over a branch to prevent burning the bark and damaging your rope.
4. Essential Knots
Bowline: The "King of Knots" for anchoring; it is secure but easy to untie after being weighted.
Figure-8 Loop: A standard, non-slip loop for attaching the rope to your harness.
Blake’s Hitch: A classic friction knot used by tree climbers to ascend and descend on a rope.
Prusik Knot: A friction hitch used as a backup brake or for ascending.
5. Etiquette & Legalities
Public Parks: In many cities, climbing trees in public parks is technically illegal or against ordinance. Always check local rules to avoid fines.
Leave No Trace: Do not break off live branches to clear a path. If you can’t climb it without "pruning" it, find another tree.
Respect Wildlife: If you encounter a nest or animal den, descend immediately and leave the tree. You are the visitor in their home.
6. Emergency Basics
Climb With a Partner: Never do technical climbs alone. If you get stuck or injured, you need someone on the ground to call for help.
Have a Descent Plan: Before you go up, know exactly how you are getting down. climbing up is often physically easier than climbing down
0
0 comments
Just some random tips
powered by
skool.com/tree-jobs-1775
Networking and skill sharing platform for tree workers aspiring and skilled alike.
Suggested communities
Powered by