Are Your Trees Ready for the Storm?  

You and your property should be well-prepared for the hurricane season. When it comes to protecting your properties, tree safety is of primary concern. If your tree is not ready for the storm, then high are the chances that it will damage your property and put your family at risk. It’s necessary to check the warning signs below to make sure that your tree is safe when a strong storm strikes. 

1. There are no limbs over the roof. 

Trees tend to grow over the roof and this is normal. But you have to watch out for those limbs that may fall down on the roof since that can cause a huge damage. Big limbs are heavy and dangerous. Pay special attention to horizontal branches and the ones with weak joints. Remove them as necessary. 

2. The trunk has no signs of decay or hollowness.  

If there’s a visible hole in the tree’s trunk, then it may mean there’s a large internal cavity in it. These trees are not as sturdy as you think they are and as such, they are considered hazardous. Minor winds can topple the tree so you might have to cut it out before any accident happens.  

3. The tree is not leaning haphazardly.  

If the entire tree, not just its branches, is leaning towards your property, then it’s a hazard. It may damage your car, your home, or the entire outdoor area. It’s necessary to call for a tree service to determine if the leaning tree has strong roots and that it won’t fall down even if a strong storm hits. 

4. There are no branches touching the utility line.  

All tree branches that are reaching the power lines should be trimmed to preventing power outage during a storm. As a rule of thumb, a tree that’s within 10 feet of power lines should be removed. Such instance may cause not just power outages but also surges and fires. Downed lines are still conducting electricity so they’re dangerous. Furthermore, trees that fall into utility lines are very hazardous. 

5. There are no dead limbs.  

You may already know that when the storm comes, dead limbs are the first ones that fall down. Part of regular tree maintenance procedure is removing these branches. The longer dead branches stay on the tree, the more dangerous they are. 

6. There is no dense canopy. 

It’s necessary to thin the canopy to allow for air penetration during a windstorm. Doing so will prevent the tree from toppling. It’s essential to let the strong wind pass through the tree instead of right into it, as it may take everything along with it. To thin the canopy, you have to request for a pruning service.  

These are the things that you should take note of to ensure that your tree is storm-ready. If you are keeping a tree in your front or backyard, always remember that it needs regular up-keeping. You have to do everything’s necessary to make sure that you, your family, and your property are safe at all times, more so during the dreaded hurricane season. To know what to do to your tree if you notice any of the problems listed above, call a certified tree expert right away.