While trees are a stunning organic addition to any landscape, they can pose a significant risk when they fall unexpectedly. Whether it's due to a severe storm, disease, or other factors, a fallen tree can be dangerous and disruptive.

Knowing what to do when a tree falls is crucial for your safety and property preservation. In this blog, we will walk you through the steps to take during an emergency and the importance of professional tree services.

Be sure to reach out to us if you have any questions!

Assess the Situation

The first and most crucial step when a tree falls is to assess the situation. Safety should be your top priority.

Here's what you need to consider:

Ensure Safety: When it comes to fallen trees, safety needs to be of the utmost importance. Here are a few crucial initial steps we recommend you take:

• Keep your distance from the fallen tree and any power lines that may be tangled in it. Fallen power lines can be highly hazardous.
• If anyone was near the tree when it fell, check for injuries.
• If it is safe to do so, secure the area by placing warning signs or barriers to prevent people and vehicles from getting too close.

Document the Damage: Always remember to take photos or videos of the fallen tree and any damage it may have caused to your property or structures. This documentation may be helpful for insurance claims.

Contact Emergency Services: If the tree has caused damage or poses an immediate threat to life or property, call your local emergency services or utility company.

Hire Professional Tree Services

Once you have ensured safety and documented the situation, it's time to consider hiring professional tree services. Here are some compelling reasons why professional help is essential:

Safety: Tree removal and cleanup can be dangerous, especially when dealing with large trees or those twisted in structures or power lines. Professional arborists have the necessary training and equipment to handle these situations safely.

Expertise: Trained arborists and tree specialists understand the intricacies of tree removal, including assessing tree health, cutting techniques, and proper disposal.

Equipment: Professionals have the right equipment, such as chainsaws, cranes, and wood chippers, to efficiently and safely remove fallen trees and debris.

Insurance: Many tree service companies carry insurance, which provides coverage in case of accidents or damage during the removal process.

Speed and Efficiency: Professional tree services can quickly and efficiently remove fallen trees and debris, minimizing disruption to your daily life.

The Tree Removal Process

When you hire professional tree services, they will follow a systematic process to safely remove the fallen tree. Here's what you can expect:

Assessment: An arborist team will assess the situation, including the size and condition of the fallen tree, any nearby structures, and potential hazards.

Safety Measures: Safety measures will be implemented to protect the workers and surrounding property.

Cutting and Removal: Using specialized equipment, the team will cut the tree into manageable sections and remove them one by one.

Debris Removal: Once the tree is removed, the debris, including branches and leaves, will be cleared from your property.

Cleanup: The area will be thoroughly cleaned to ensure there are no lingering hazards or debris.

Disposal: The tree service company will arrange for the proper disposal of the tree and debris, either through mulching, recycling, or other environmentally friendly methods.

Post-Tree Removal Considerations

After the fallen tree has been safely removed, there are a few additional steps to take:

Inspect Your Property: Carefully inspect your property for any damage that could have occurred during the tree's fall. Consider checking roofs, fences, and other nearby structures.

Insurance Claims: Contact your insurance company to report the damage and provide them with the documentation you collected earlier.

Tree Replacement: Consider planting a new tree to replace the one that fell. You can consult the arborist who removed the tree to help you select an appropriate species and location.

Preventative Measures: Evaluate the health of your remaining trees and take preventative measures to reduce the risk of future falls.

Now that we’ve covered the crucial steps to take when a tree has fallen, we will discuss the difference between doing it yourself and hiring a professional.

DIY vs. Professional Tree Removal

DIY tree removal may initially appear cost-effective, but it can lead to higher expenses due to accidents or property damage. It poses significant safety risks as it demands proper training and equipment, risking injuries without the necessary skills. Mishandling DIY tree removal can also result in legal problems, especially if it causes damage to neighboring properties or utilities.

Professional tree services offer several advantages, starting with a strong emphasis on safety and the ability to handle complex situations with expertise. Trained arborists possess a deep understanding of handling trees, guaranteeing safe and effective removal. They are swift at removing trees while minimizing disruption to your property. Additionally, most tree service companies carry insurance to provide coverage for accidents or damage that may occur during the removal process.

In saying all this, we believe you can’t put a cost on safety, which is why tree removal should always be left to the professionals.

The Bottom Line

Dealing with a fallen tree can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation. However, by following the steps outlined in this guide and enlisting the help of professional tree services, you can ensure the safe and efficient removal of the tree and minimize further damage to your property. Remember that safety should always be your top priority, and when in doubt, it's best to leave tree removal to the experts. Taking the proper steps during this emergency can help you quickly get back to enjoying the beauty and benefits of your landscape.

If you are dealing with a fallen tree and looking for a qualified arborist, the Brents Tree Service team is precisely what you need. Reach us at (512) 310-8789 to book a service appointment at your earliest convenience. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!