Dilemma re cutting branches touching wires

[RogerLemelin]

Internet company came to install a new fiber optic line but couldn't do it because branches are in the way. There are four branches actually touching the power and DSL lines. It's my responsibility to take care of the branches. They're small, only about 2" or 3" in diameter, and about 12'-15' off the ground. They're about 12 feet out from the tree trunk. I have a manual pole saw which was a bit short. I was able to lengthen it with a piece of PVC pipe. Problem: When I try to saw a branch, it bounces up and down on the wires pretty severely because of the small diameter of the branches. I'm afraid of damaging the DSL wire and losing my internet connection, which is already iffy. In order to saw something, it has to relatively stationary. Any suggestions?

 

[jimrb]

It will not bounce around if you cut the branch at the trunk.

 

[RogerLemelin]

I'm hoping to not have to sacrifice the whole limb and only cut the ends that are touching the wires. It's an old walnut tree. The limbs are sparse as it is.

 

[TheJollyLogger]

You need a better saw.

 

[RogerLemelin]

Any suggestions?

 

[TheJollyLogger]

If you're cutting 12-15' up, most extendable gas, and some electric pole saws will reach just fine.

 

[RogerLemelin]

I'm going to tape my 11" Corona Razor Tooth saw to the end of the pole saw and see if that works better. It has finer, sharper teeth.

 

[POGuy]

Any suggestions?

I once used a 12 gauge shotgun to trim an oak branch that interfered with a TV antenna.

 

[Mad Professor]

Call the power company to shut off power when you do the work.

Most electric companies are responsible for the lines/service until they enter the house/meter. Call them they might cut the limbs free.

 

[gregozedobe]

If you're cutting 12-15' up, most extendable gas, and some electric pole saws will reach just fine.

If you butt the body of the saw up against the branch the rotation of the chain will keep pulling the branch towards the saw body, so the branch should bounce around a lot less than hand sawing. Just be careful not to electrocute yourself and keep the saw well away from the actual power lines (and don't do it at all if there is any moisture around).

 

[lone wolf]

I'm going to tape my 11" Corona Razor Tooth saw to the end of the pole saw and see if that works better. It has finer, sharper teeth.

Don't use aluminum or any other type of metal pole anywhere near power lines! It can kill!

 

[RogerLemelin]

UPDATE: Switching to the Corona blade worked! The branches are all down now. By the way, I recommend the Corona Razor Tooth hand pruning saw. It's cheaper than the elite brands and according to some good YouTube reviews it cuts as good as or better than those brands.

Thanks to everyone who educated me about power lines. I took that seriously.