Homeowners have two good reasons for caution as fall storms encroach your property. Beware of residual hazards from storm-damaged trees, and roving “tree cutters” who may not have the best interests of you and your trees in mind.

Five tips to stay safe around storm-damaged trees

1. Never touch or attempt to remove fallen limbs from downed or sagging power lines; always report downed lines to your local utility company.
2. Keep away from areas where uprooted trees may have damaged underground utilities.
3. Avoid walking underneath trees that have broken limbs dangling.
4. If you need to inspect a tree after a storm, do not walk underneath its suspended branches or leaning trunk. Approach a leaning tree from the opposite side of the direction it is leaning. Binoculars are great for inspecting trees from a safe distance.
5. Refrain from doing tree work yourself. Pruning large limbs or removing trees is dangerous business that requires specialized equipment and training.

After storms that cause heavy damage to trees, be wary of approaches from unskilled “tree cutters.” These individuals may pressure homeowners into costly and unnecessary work, cause additional property damage due to their lack of expertise or training, or put homeowners at risk by operating without proper licensing or insurance coverage.

Five more tips to ensure that you, your property, and your trees are cared for properly

1. Hire a company that is licensed, bonded and insured. Look to see if it is certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
2. Seek at least three estimates; ask for copies of the estimates in writing.
3. Never put down a deposit for work without a signed contract that includes the company’s refund policy.
4. Ask for references, and check them.
5. Reject any company that recommends “topping” your tree. Don’t top trees!

You can always contact DNR’s Urban and Community Forestry Program for additional guidance.

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