Ensuring Children’s Safety Around Tree Removal Sites: Dos & Don’ts

Tree removal is often necessary for maintaining a safe and healthy environment, whether due to diseased trees, overgrown branches, or storm damage. However, it also presents serious risks, especially for children who may not fully understand the dangers. If you’re planning tree removal on your property, protecting kids from falling debris, heavy machinery, and other hazards is crucial.

In this blog post, we’ll explore key safety measures you should take to ensure your child’s well-being during a tree removal project.

Tree removal is a complex task that involves powerful tools, falling branches, and heavy logs. While professional arborists follow strict safety protocols, children may still be at risk due to their natural curiosity and unpredictable movements.

Potential hazards include:

• Falling debris – Branches and limbs can drop unpredictably, causing injury.
• Heavy machinery – Chainsaws, wood chippers, and stump grinders pose a risk if children wander too close.
• Tripping hazards – Tree stumps, scattered branches, and exposed roots can lead to falls.
• Noise & dust – The loud equipment and airborne particles can cause discomfort and irritation.

Understanding these risks is the first step in keeping your children safe. Prevention and supervision are key in minimising the dangers.

A secure perimeter must be set up around the tree removal site to prevent accidents. Children should always remain at a safe distance from the work zone.

Safety measures to implement:

• Establish a minimum exclusion zone of at least 15 metres from the tree removal area.
• Use temporary fencing or cones to mark restricted areas.
• Place warning signs to alert family members and visitors of the work in progress.
• If the tree is removed near an entry point, keep doors and gates locked.
• Designate a responsible adult to supervise children if they’re outside during work.

By creating a clearly defined boundary, you can prevent children from unintentionally wandering into the danger zone.

Children are naturally curious, so simply telling them to stay away may not be enough. Instead, take the time to explain why tree removal is dangerous in a way they can understand.

How to talk to children about tree removal safety:

• Use simple language to describe why tree cutting is dangerous.
• Show pictures or videos of tree removal to help them visualise the risks.
• Compare falling branches to a falling toy or bookcase to make it relatable.
• Reinforce safety rules by role-playing scenarios (e.g., "What should you do if you see workers near a tree?").
• Set clear consequences for disobeying safety rules, such as staying inside for the duration of the work.

Children are more likely to follow the rules by making safety education engaging and age-appropriate.

No matter how many precautions are in place, active supervision is the best way to ensure children stay out of harm’s way.

Effective supervision strategies:

• Assign a dedicated adult to watch children while the tree removal is in progress.
• Keep younger children indoors or in a secure play area away from the worksite.
• Encourage older children to engage in supervised activities like board games or crafts indoors.
• Inform babysitters or caregivers about the scheduled tree removal and the safety measures in place.

Remember, distractions such as phone calls or household chores can create moments of inattention, so a dedicated supervisor should remain focused on child safety.

Not all tree removal companies operate with the same level of safety awareness. When hiring professionals, prioritise those that implement child-friendly safety measures.

What to look for in a tree removal service:

• Companies that explain their safety protocols before starting work.
• Professionals who are willing to adjust their work schedule to accommodate family needs.
• Teams that offer child-safe removal plans, such as temporary fencing or designated work hours.
• Arborists who conduct a thorough site clean-up after removal to eliminate debris.

Hiring the right tree removal service can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and smooth process.

During tree removal, children need a safe place to play where they won’t be tempted to explore the worksite. Setting up an alternative play area can help keep them occupied and protected.

Ideas for alternative play spaces:

• Move outdoor toys and activities to a different part of the yard or into the garage.
• Plan a fun indoor activity, such as a movie day or a craft session.
• Take children to a nearby park or friend’s house while the tree removal is happening.
• Set up a temporary play tent or reading nook away from the worksite.

Keeping children engaged elsewhere reduces the chances of wandering too close to the removal area.

Despite all precautions, accidents can still occur. Being prepared can make a significant difference in responding quickly and effectively.

Steps to take in case of an emergency:

• Keep a first-aid kit readily available.
• Ensure all family members know where the emergency contact numbers are located.
• Discuss a family emergency plan, including where to go and who to call.
• Familiarise yourself with basic first aid, especially for cuts, bruises, and splinters.
• If a serious injury occurs, call emergency services immediately and avoid moving the injured person.

Preparation can help reduce panic and ensure a swift response if an accident does happen.

Once the tree removal is complete, it is essential to check the area for any remaining hazards before allowing children to play outside.

Post-removal safety checklist:

• Inspect the ground for sharp branches, sawdust, or hidden roots that could cause tripping.
• Ensure any remaining stumps are properly ground down or covered.
• Check if fences, gates, or play structures were affected during the removal.
• Confirm that the team has removed all equipment and debris.

Only after verifying the area is hazard-free should outdoor activities resume.

At Arborclimb, we prioritise safety in every project we undertake. If you’re planning tree removal and need a professional team that considers child safety, get in touch with us today. Your family’s safety is our top priority!