Amateur Tree Care Can Be Dangerous.

• Position: LANDSCAPING ACCIDENTS

The Tree Care Industry Association, Londonderry, N.H., conducted an analysis of 62 civilian tree care-related accidents reported by the media during a recent 18-month period. While the numbers are not representative of all--or even most--tree care accidents involving nonprofessionals, they provide insight into the types of hazards homeowners are likely to encounter while attempting this type of work.

The findings are grim, as 41 of the accidents were fatal. "Homeowners may not realize how dangerous tree work can be, and how much they're risking by taking the 'do-it-yourself approach," says Peter Gerstenberger, TCIA senior advisor for Safety, Standards, and Compliance. "Lack of training, equipment, or situational awareness undoubtedly contributed to these incidents."

The median age of...