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Diagram of safe/danger areas from felling direction Retreat Path
You must plan your escape route and clear a path BEFORE you begin cutting.

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Text box for answers to interactive diagram
Direction of Safe Retreat
  • 45 degrees from the sides and back on either side 
  • NEVER move away directly behind the tree-you can be seriously hurt if the tree butt kicks back during the fall
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How to Retreat
  • Using a bore cut and a release cut will make it easier to retreat in plenty of time
  • Don't turn back on the falling tree
  • Walk quickly away to a distance of 20 feet from the falling tree
  • Position yourself behind a standing tree if possible
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Felling map with cleared path, targeted tree, felling direction, and possible escape routes
Continue with Lesson 4 Click on Arrow to Continue with Lesson 4  
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