The forecast is calling for up to 1/2 an inch of ice from this latest storm. Barts Tree Service is already on call to provide emergency storm support for some of the local towns and will be out responding to emergency tree removals and repairs caused by the ice storm across Fairfield County.

Never is a tree in greater danger then when a storm is upon us. The weight of ice or snow and the fury of wind will test the strength of limbs, trunks, and roots. The homeowner, helpless at the moment, can only watch and hope that the tree survives. Survival or loss – the key can be the care you give your tree before and after the storm. Knowing ahead of time what to do when a storm strikes can also prevent or minimize your financial loss.

What To Do The Morning After a Storm

Although your trees may look mortally damaged from a storm, trees have the ability to recover from some damage. With proper pruning and care, all but the most severely damaged trees have a good chance to regain their health and beauty. Here are some things to do following a major storm.

1. Take Safety Precautions

Be on the alert for downed power lines and stay away from them. Be cautious of trees that are near wires since they might come into contact with wires as a result of damage or just from extreme weight of the ice bending branches and contacting them.

Keep a watchful eye out for “Widow Makers”, dangerous hanging branches ready to fall.

2. Assess the Damage

Don’t be too quick  to declare a tree beyond hope. If damage is relatively slight, or if most of the tree’s basic structure is still intact despite the loss of many smaller limbs, the tree stands a good chance of making it. On the other hand, if the trunk is split or if most of the tree’s crown is down, the tree might be beyond help and require removal.

3. Get Professional Help

If large limbs are hanging or if utility wires or structures are involved, don’t try to do the tree work yourself.  Hire a tree professional who can recommend needed repairs.  Almost all tree professionals will provide a free consultation to make recommendations and quote services.

When calling a tree service try to indicate if it’s an emergency where there is a possibility of human and/or property damage so the tree service can prioritize those calls over general storm damage cleanup.  And, unless you really know how to use a chainsaw, leave chainsaw work to the professionals.