Tree Felling: Don't Try at Home (by Yourself, Without a Helmet, Using a Tractor)

This week's issue of the MMWR describes 18 nonoccupational logging fatalities in Vermont during an 11-year period (1997-2007), most of which (83%) were related to tree removals on private property. During the same time, 16 occupationally related deaths of professional loggers were recorded in the state.

All 18 nonoccupational deaths involved white (non-Hispanic) men, 10 of whom were alone (think weekend-warrior circumstances). Fourteen deaths were caused by injuries from falling trees or branches; however, the removal of tree stumps is not without hazard. One poor schmo attempted to uproot a stump that was chained to his tractor. Once engaged, the tractor backflipped, crushing the man underneath. The absence of protective gear was a contributing factor to death, but intoxication with alcohol or illicit substances was not.

The report's moral: Hire a professional.

P.S. To get an idea of the high drama of the logging industry, watch The History Channel's "Ax Men."

Photo: iStockPhoto.