Trees can quickly transform from beneficial to downright hazardous when major storms strike. High winds and heavy rains often leave behind broken branches or completely toppled trunks that need urgent handling. That’s why having a professional tree service like The Tree Master ready to provide emergency response is so crucial for storm-prone areas.
This article offers guidance on recognizing when to call the experts, what certified arborists can offer, and how proper rapid response prevents further property damage and safety issues. Understanding when and how to bring in the pros ensures that storm-impaired trees are removed or pruned safely and efficiently.
Hazards from Damaged Trees
Trees weakened by storms can fail or shed dangerous branches that put people and property at risk. Downed trees obviously can block roads and driveways, but they also damage vehicles, buildings, power lines and more. Hanging broken limbs also pose major threats, as they may give way unexpectedly.
Dangers remain even after the storm passes. Trees left leaning or with new cracks and wounds will continue deteriorating. Wind and rain worsen structural instability, and limbs can crack again at any time. Fallen trees contacting electrical equipment also create hazardous scenarios if wires are compromised.
Call a Certified Arborist for Urgent Assistance
With so many potential dangers, hazardous storm-damaged trees need to be evaluated and remediated quickly. Property owners should call certified arborists like those at The Tree Master at the first signs of:
- Downed trees blocking roads, driveways, or other access
- Broken, hanging branches in trees
- Trees leaning dangerously or uprooted
- Trees contacting buildings, vehicles, or other property
- Trees on electrical wires or equipment
Don’t inspect very hazardous trees yourself. Certified arborists have proper training to safely assess damage and response priorities. When calling for help, inquire when tree crews can arrive given the urgent public safety concerns. Reputable firms will send experts promptly to address serious hazards.
What Professional Emergency Services Provide
Here’s what you can expect:
- Thorough evaluation by a certified arborist. They’ll examine the tree defects caused by the storm to determine needs.
- Priority-based response, with most hazardous situations addressed first. Blocked roads/driveways, utility risks, and property damage will get rapid response.
- Safety preparations like traffic control and area security around the tree. This protects workers and the public.
- Equipment mobilization including bucket trucks, cranes, wood chippers, and other gear tailored to the specific removal/pruning needs.
- Technical expertise utilizing proper techniques based on tree type, location, and defects. This ensures effective hazard remedy.
- Debris cleanup with the work area swept and raked when finished.
- Documentation for insurance claims if desired. Photos and details of the work performed can be provided.
By hiring certified pros instead of tackling issues yourself, you ensure the tree hazards get proper attention while avoiding unnecessary risk. You also have licensed, insured experts handling liabilities and complexities.
When to Call for Emergency Tree Help After a Storm
Call right away whenever any of these things happen:
- A tree or branches struck a building, vehicle, or other property. Even minor damage could hide structural issues.
- Trees are impeding critical roadways or driveways, blocking emergency vehicle access.
- Significant branches are cracked, hanging, or newly fallen around your property. Don’t try removing them yourself.
- Trees are leaning dangerously close to buildings, power lines, or other infrastructure that would suffer major damage if struck.
- Any utility line has been brought down by trees. Contact the utility company ASAP as well.
- Trees have major new structural defects like split trunks or excessive leaning after a storm. Their failure may be imminent.
Walk your property after severe weather to spot worrisome trees in need of removal or pruning. Your quick call can get qualified crews dispatched to prevent bigger problems.
Rapid Response Prevents Compounding Issues
Having professional arborists promptly and safely handle storm-damaged trees prevents compounding property damage, injuries, and access problems. They have the expertise, equipment and responsiveness to address urgent hazards.
Don’t delay reaching out for help when dangerous post-storm tree conditions exist on your property. A rapid, expert response ensures people, homes, and infrastructure stay protected in the aftermath. Just be certain to hire fully certified, licensed, and insured services like The Tree Master to avoid liability concerns.
With some advance planning and quick response, communities recover faster after storm impacts. Having reputable tree care companies ready for emergency calls keeps recovery flowing smoothly while keeping the area safe. Always look for credentials like registered arborist certifications when hiring any tree service.
Stay safe by engaging qualified tree experts after major weather events. They’ll have your property secured again in no time!
FAQs
Q: How soon after a storm should I have tree damage assessed?
A: Contact a certified arborist as soon as possible after identifying potentially hazardous trees or branches on your property. Rapid response is key for safety and preventing additional damage.
Q: Will my homeowners insurance cover storm-damaged trees?
A: It depends on your specific policy. Some may cover complete removal and treatment of storm-damaged trees. Keep documentation of any emergency work for claims.
Q: Is it safe for me to prune broken branches myself?
A: Not if branches are large, hanging dangerously, or could strike property/people if dropped. Certified arborists have the expertise to safely assess and remedy these risks.
Q: What qualifications should an emergency tree service have?
A: Look for ISA-certified arborists on staff, licenses and insurance, and positive reviews. Firms like The Tree Master have the credentials and responsiveness to address urgent storm-related tree hazards.