How To Safely Hang Your Tree Hammock

It is summer and how you just love to spend the days cooling down the heat under the shade. One way of relaxing during this time of the year is to bring out that tree hammock of yours and hang it for lounging. But before you start swaying, make sure that you know the proper steps in securing it properly for your comfort and safety. Here is how it is done.

• Select the location where to hang the tree hammock. There must be enough space to allow the hammock to swing without hitting on something.

• Find two grown sturdy trees that are about 12 to 15 feet away from each other. The tree trunks must measure at least 10 - 12 inches in diameter to ensure stability. Spread the hammock flatly on the ground leaving a space at least one foot longer than the hammock.

• Measuring 5 to 6 feet from the ground, drill a hole through the body of the tree. Drill the holes at the front where you intend to hang the hammock. This way prevents the hardware from being twisted once the hammock is hung. If the trees are closer than the ideal 15 feet, holes must be drilled a little higher to allow elasticity when the hammock is hung. Once the hole is drilled, use a 1/2 inch eye bolt and insert it through the hole until it reaches the other side. An overlap must measure by 2 inches. Use a washer and nut to screw the eyebolt safely to the tree. Do this on both trees.

Do not use any type of eye screws because there are no washer or nut to secure them. When they start to lose thread, there is virtually nothing to support them. This may cause the hammock to fall and may cause injury to you.

• When the bolts are secured, attach steel brackets or hooks on them. Attach the built-in loops or links to the brackets or hooks installed in the tree. Do not stretch the hammock too tightly because this produces more load pressure to the hardware supports.

• Test the hammock’s stability by pulling it to its maximum length. There must be equal length on each side of the hammock.

• Get yourself into the hammock to determine if the height is functional. If it is too high, put another steel chain between the hammock hook and the eyebolt to make it easy to adjust the height. The hammock tends to lower itself naturally after several uses. Adjust its length as necessary to maintain the height at its original level.

Getting in a hammock calls for a little maneuvering. At times, it can be embarrassing when not done the proper way. Do not try to hold it as if it is going somewhere. Do not climb with your feet first. Position yourself with your back to the hammock. With your hands at your back, hold the hammock to steady it. Gently sit down, lift your feet off the ground, and stretch them onto the hammock. When you get tired of it and you want to get off, bring one leg over to a side, and as you hold the edges lift your body to the sitting position. Bring the other leg down and stand up.

Loll lazily as you droop yourself to slumber land. Always remember it is not a swing so sway gently. If you put too much force and sway wildly, it may cause you to tip over causing severe injury not only to you but also to the hammock and the trees. It is not only for you but also for the whole family. Supervise small children when they want to get in the hammock. Always put your weight at the center to maintain balance.

Enjoy your tree hammock. It sure is one relaxing image of lazy summer days.