Emergency Tree Services: What to Do When a Storm Hits

When a storm hits, your property can take a beating—especially your trees. Strong winds, heavy rain, and even lightning strikes can cause trees to fall or limbs to break, posing significant risks to your home, vehicles, and family. Knowing what to do when disaster strikes is crucial to keeping your property safe. This article will guide you through the steps to take after a storm, how to identify tree damage, and when to call for emergency tree services to prevent further harm.

Introduction

Trees are beautiful, but they can become hazardous during storms. After severe weather, fallen trees and broken branches can block roads, damage homes, and even pose electrical hazards. In these situations, acting quickly and safely is essential.

If you’ve ever wondered what steps to take when a tree falls on your property or if a large limb is dangling dangerously close to your home, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about emergency tree services, what you should do immediately after a storm, and when to call in the professionals.

1. Assess the Damage Safely

After a storm, the first thing you should do is assess the damage—carefully. Safety should be your top priority. Trees or branches that have fallen on power lines, cars, or houses can pose life-threatening dangers. Here’s what to do:

• Stay Clear of Downed Power Lines: If any part of the tree has come into contact with power lines, do not attempt to remove it yourself. This can lead to electrocution or fire. Instead, call your utility company immediately and let them handle it.
• Look for Structural Damage: Check your home, garage, or any structures on your property for damage caused by fallen branches or uprooted trees.
• Inspect Trees for Dangerous Limbs: Look for hanging limbs or branches that appear damaged but have not yet fallen. These are known as “widowmakers” and can cause serious injury or damage if they fall unexpectedly.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to call for professional emergency tree services.

2. Call for Professional Emergency Tree Services

Once you’ve assessed the situation, the next step is to contact a certified tree service company that offers emergency services. Storm-damaged trees can be unpredictable and dangerous to remove, so it’s important to leave the work to trained professionals who have the right tools and experience.

Why Choose Professional Tree Services?

• Safety First: Professionals have the necessary equipment—like cranes, chainsaws, and safety harnesses—to handle large or hazardous tree removal safely.
• Prevent Further Damage: A fallen tree can cause even more damage if not removed properly. By calling in professionals, you ensure the tree is removed without causing additional harm to your property.
• 24/7 Availability: Most emergency tree services offer 24/7 response times, which means they can come out immediately after the storm to prevent further damage or injuries.

3. Document the Damage for Insurance

If a tree has fallen on your home, car, or other property, it’s crucial to document the damage for insurance purposes. Take clear photos of the fallen tree, the damage it caused, and any areas that may need repair. This documentation will help when filing a claim with your insurance company.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal?

In most cases, homeowners insurance will cover the cost of tree removal if the tree caused damage to your home or other insured structures. However, if the tree simply fell in your yard without causing damage, you may be responsible for the removal costs. It’s always best to check your insurance policy or speak with your agent to understand your coverage.

4. Prevent Future Storm Damage

While you can’t prevent storms, you can minimize the risk of tree damage on your property by taking proactive steps. Here are some ways to safeguard your home and property before the next storm hits:

• Regular Tree Maintenance: Hire a professional arborist to inspect and prune your trees regularly. Removing weak or dead branches can prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm.
• Cabling and Bracing: If you have large, mature trees on your property, an arborist can install cables and braces to help support weak branches and trunks.
• Remove Hazardous Trees: If a tree is dead, diseased, or leaning dangerously close to your home, it’s best to have it removed before it becomes a bigger problem.

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, regular pruning and tree health assessments can reduce the likelihood of storm damage by 30%.

5. Common FAQs About Emergency Tree Services

Q: When should I call emergency tree services?

A: You should call emergency tree services immediately if a tree or large branch has fallen on your home, power lines, or is blocking a roadway. Also, if you notice any hanging branches or damaged trees that could fall, it’s better to act quickly to prevent further damage.

Q: How much does emergency tree removal cost?

A: The cost of emergency tree removal can vary widely depending on the size of the tree, its location, and the complexity of the removal. On average, you can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for emergency services, but insurance may cover part or all of the cost.

Q: Can I remove the tree myself?

A: While DIY tree removal might be tempting, it’s dangerous—especially if the tree is large or near power lines. It’s best to leave emergency tree removal to professionals who have the experience and equipment to handle the situation safely.

Conclusion

When a storm hits and trees are damaged, quick action is crucial. Start by safely assessing the damage, documenting it for insurance, and contacting professional emergency tree services to handle the removal. By taking these steps, you can minimize damage to your property and ensure the safety of your family.

Be proactive by regularly maintaining your trees and removing any that pose a risk. Doing so can significantly reduce the chance of tree-related damage when the next storm strikes. Don’t wait for disaster to happen—invest in tree health now and stay prepared for future storms.