Hedges can be a beautiful addition to any landscape and provide a natural barrier against the elements.
However, hedges grow quite tall and require trimming on occasion to ensure they are not an eye sore or blocking your view.
There are many ways you can trim a hedge; however, some methods may pose more risk than others when it comes to safety.
This blog post will explore some of these risks as well as offer up tips for safe hedge trimming so that you can have peace of mind while maintaining your garden’s beauty.
Hedge Trimming Safety Tips To Follow
Hedge trimming is a popular home improvement project that can make your property feel more manicured and inviting. However, with the proper safety precautions in place, you’ll be able to complete this task without any trouble.
Well maintained Trimmer: Make sure you have a hedge trimmer, which is well maintained and of good quality. Powered either by battery, petrol, or mains electric, keep it in right condition no matter which one you choose. A machine in good condition is safe.
A good and all-around hedge trimmer is supposed to have reciprocating blades, double-sided, decent cutting length, swivel handle, and more convenience and comfort to facilitate cutting from different angles.
Wear Long Sleeves: In order to keep yourself safe while hedge trimming, always wear long sleeves and pants as well as gloves and goggles. These will protect your arms from scratches and scrapes which could lead to infection if not treated right away.
Never trim too close: Never trim too close or overgrown hedges so that they won’t fall on you when they are cut down to size!
Read the Instruction Manual: Always read the operating instructions. This is the constant comment from the suppliers, as people often damage the machines simply by not reading these instructions. If the manual is not correctly read and you have any questions, call the manufacturer or search on the internet for answers.
Always Check Before You Start: Never use the hedge trimmer before checking it. Keep the blades clean and sharp and lubricate them. The blunt blades make work difficult and can damage the shrub or hedge.
Comfortable Clothing: Ensure you wear comfortable clothing. Never wear loose clothing or cut in the flip flops. Wear sturdy, flat shoes and clothes that won’t get caught in the hedge trimmer blades.
Wear protective clothing: Wear protective clothing whenever possible. It may appear like overkilling to wear glasses to protect the eyes when trimming the hedge, but hitting your eyes with a flying twig can affect vision. If possible, wear a robust chainsaw or gardening gloves.
Look for the obstacles: Always look for the obstacles such as rocks, branches, toys, among others, around the hedge before starting. If you trip when cutting, it can be very risky.
Don’t Trim in Rain: Never use the hedge trimmer in the rain. It is dangerous, especially if you’re using an electric machine. Also, it is not effective and does not produce the best results.
Do not drink alcohol: Do not drink alcohol or any substance that can alter the mind during or before hedge trimming. It would be helpful if your muscles and senses are in control, alert, and fit to perform this task. Also, don’t use the hedge trimmer when you’re tired.
Place the cable behind: Be When you use electric hedge trimmers, it is generally helpful to place the cable behind and above the shoulder to prevent getting too close to the blades.
Make sure the hands are on both handles whenever using the hedge trimmer.
Never stand on tiptoe: Your standard, versatile, and universal hedge trimmer is not designed for very tall hedges or trees. Never stand on tiptoe or overstretch to cut high branches and twigs. Never raise the hedge trimmer above head height.
Basically, if you opt to use the step ladder or a normal ladder, make sure it’s stable. Ultimately, it is best to keep the feet on the ground very flat, and if the hedge trimmer is very high, use the long-range model.
- Each cut is supposed to be done carefully, sweeping motion parallel to and along the hedge top. The side is supposed to be cut in the same bottom-up motion on the hedge.
- Always move forward when cutting along the hedge. Walking back through the fence in the powered machine is not the best idea.
- If the foliage remains in the blades, ensure the hedge trimmer is completely off before removing and wearing gloves every time.
Conclusion
Hedge trimming is a great job, but it can be dangerous. Follow these safety tips to make your hedge trimming experience enjoyable and safe for you and those around you.
Here are the summaries. First, always wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and ear plugs.
Second, if using power tools ensure they are in good working order before use.
Third, never operate any machinery while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Finally, remember that it’s important for children under 10 years of age not do any heavy lifting or use power tools such as chainsaws because their bodies don’t have.
Have someone nearby who can call for help should anything go wrong!