Little known scientific fact: cats get stuck in trees because their claws are perfectly shaped for climbing up but not so well designed for climbing down. Of course, we can’t read their minds, so we don’t know if Kitty’s precarious situation at the top of that maple is thanks to claw design or fear.
For us humanoid types, fear and physiology often both play a part. Yet, in our dedication to spreading holiday cheer, our efforts border on the heroic for overcoming both. Yes, the indomitability of the human spirit is to be lauded, but a little caution can be taken from the annals of Hollywood. (Think National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.)
It’s also good to keep in mind that those tree trimmers you saw shaping up the large elm near Belle Meade Boulevard early last spring make climbing look easy not only because they’re professionals, they’ve also embraced the importance of climbing safety.
In our continuing, year-round efforts to keep customers safe, Tree Service of Nashville not only protects homeowners from falling limbs of decaying trees, we also encourage homeowners from Hendersonville to Brentwood to consider these tips for avoiding outdoor, light-hanging, holiday mishaps:
1. Use appropriately sized, sturdy-enough-for-the-job ladders, and follow all precautions posted on the ladder safety sticker.
2. It’s never advisable to swim alone, and it’s also not advisable to hang outdoor Christmas lights alone. In fact, any time a ladder and roof or tall tree are involved, it’s a good idea to have a buddy.
3. Read labels on string lights carefully to ensure they are certified for outdoor use.
4. Maintain a healthy fear of (and steer clear of) power lines near roofs and trees.
5. Love yourself, love your tree. Don’t use nails or staples to attach strings of lights to the trunk of that lovely evergreen. Avoiding sharp metal objects near electricity is good for your health, and good for your tree, too.
To continue to love your trees throughout the year, contact us for all your tree service, lawn service and lawn maintenance needs!