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Inspecting a tree is the first step toward minimizing the risk of climbing it. Seeing cracks on the outside of the tree trunk or radiating from the trunk down a branch is a sign of weakness. Sometimes, cracks can be seen radiating downward beneath a junction of the branch and the tree trunk itself, especially where branches are growing too closely together. The branch, if used as an anchor point on a rope line, can shear off under a sufficient load.
Other kinds of cracks include limbs damaged from an ice storm or separation cracks that can be seen running straight down the tree trunk or in a corkscrew pattern from the top of the tree to the ground. These are signs that the tree has been struck by lightning - and an exterior sign that the interior of the tree might be split and unstable.
It's best before climbing any tree - and especially trees that appear to have been damaged - to test the load. Two people should grab the rope and bounce up and down, putting their full weight on it. Then, take the rope and pull it first to one side and then the other, like in a tug-of-war. If the tree starts to creak or give way, it's best to find another tree to climb. |
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