Before swinging an axe or starting up the chainsaw, take some time to learn how to cut down a tree safely.

The felling cut should meet the point of the notch. When the tree starts to fall, the hinge will help guide the tree to fall in the desired direction.

There are several ways to fell trees and the most common is cutting a notch on the side it is to fall and then cutting from the opposite side of the tree to the notch hinge.

If a tree on your property has fallen and is blocking a road, it’s the city’s responsibility to clear it, but only up to your property line. Beyond that, it’s up to you.

This can also happen if a tree was previously in a more forested area, protected by other trees that have since been cut down (to create a new housing lot, for example).

What to know about pruning and trimming garden plants and trees in the fall and winter Now is a great time for gardeners to channel their inner Edward Scissorhands and cut things back.

12 things you need to know before you cut this year's Christmas tree.