Although a tree may seem firmly grounded in your yard, it’s not completely uncommon to see large oak trees’ roots exposed after a huge storm in Southern Louisiana. As storm season approaches, use these tips to help you prepare before and clean up after the weather blows through.
- Assess your property before a storm and contact a local tree care professional in the area to identify and remove any hazardous trunk cracks, decayed trees, leaning branches, fungus or anything close to utility lines.
- Put safety first during and directly after a storm. Follow your government’s guidelines about when it is safe to return, and once you do, stay alert. Wear the proper protective equipment, only operate a chainsaw if properly trained, stay away from utility lines and watch out for debris and loose branches.
- Evaluate tree damage by assessing the health of affected trees to see what can be salvaged. If at least 50% of the tree’s crown is intact and if major limbs are still remaining, then you should be in good shape. Also keep wildlife in mind, as they may have taken temporary shelter in your tree during a storm.
- Make necessary repairs by locating and removing broken limbs and any source of decaying agents. Always contact a professional if large limbs are broken and are hanging or if the tree is uprooted. Also, report any damaged power lines to your local utility company immediately.
