• Before cutting down a tree, you need to follow certain rules.trees image by Marta Reimpell from Fotolia.com
  
  In general, trees give us many benefits such as food, beauty and shade. Still, sometimes it is necessary to cut down trees. The tree may be too old and unstable, or it may be growing in a manner that harms your property. Therefore, cutting down the tree is the best solution for that situation. It is best to call a professional tree removal service for large trees. However, for smaller trees, you may be able to handle the task yourself. Before undertaking the task of cutting down a tree, there are important rules you need to follow to ensure the removal is done safely.
  
  

Determine the Direction

• Determine the direction you want the tree to fall. You should cut the tree in the same direction it grows, if all possible. This means that if the tree grows leaning to the right, then cut the tree so it falls to the right. However, if cutting the tree in that direction causes it to affect other trees or structures, you may have to change the direction you cut.
  
  

Make the Tree Thinner

• Once you determine the appropriate direction to cut the tree, you need to make the tree thinner by thinning out the leaves and branches. Reduce the width of the tree as much as possible. Cut all the leaves and remove any branches you can to reduce the likelihood the tree will become entangled with other nearby trees. Trimming or pruning the tree ensures the tree will have a smooth fall.
  
  

Check the Tree for Wounds

• Before making your first cut, check the tree to see if there are any visible wounds on the trunk or any hollow areas. Rotten or hollow trees should be removed by professionals because it is hard to control how the tree will fall. If you determine the tree is safe to cut, proceed with making your first cuts.
  
  

Make the Appropriate Cuts

• The first cut you need to make is called an undercut. It is a V-shaped cut made on the side of the tree in the direction you want it fall. The most effective angle for the V-shaped cut is 90 degrees. The undercut makes a hinge on the tree. On the other side of the tree, make a horizontal cut called a backcut. The backcut should be 2 inches higher than the center of the hinge cut.
  
  

Fell the Tree

• Once you cut the hinge, the tree can fall in either direction you decide. You must continue sawing the tree until the tree cracks and begins to give way. Determine at least two escape routes leading away from where the tree is expected to fall. Once you hear the crack, get as far away from the tree as you can, so the tree does not hurt you. Allow the tree to fall.