When you first planted the trees in your yard, they were small and contained. Now, several years later, they’ve grown significantly, and while you might be thrilled that they are thriving, you’ve just noticed that one of them is touching a power line.
Unfortunately, even if the tree doesn’t seem to be causing any issues, you have a dangerous situation brewing. Trees and electricity don’t mix, so you need tree services in Alexandria, VA, to cut the branches back to ensure safety for your home and the entire neighborhood.
Is a Tree Touching a Power Line? Skip the DIY!
First, if you have a tree that’s even close to a power line, don’t attempt to cut branches yourself. Any tree trimming project is dangerous without the proper training and tools, but when you add electricity to the mix, tree trimming safety is even more critical. A tree in contact with electrical wires poses an electrical hazard that could be fatal. Even if the branch looks like it’s just grazing the line, electricity can arc, or jump from the wire to the branch (or you) without warning.
The Power Outage Domino Effect
Ignoring tree branches growing close to or through the power lines could cause more trouble than you bargained for. One fallen branch during a storm could lead to a blown transformer and a neighborhood-wide power outage.
There’s also a risk that the electrical current could cause the tree branch to catch fire, which can spread and cause significant damage. Live trees can conduct electricity, especially when wet, so there’s also potential for electrocution when you least expect it.
Call the Power Company First
When you’re worried about a tree touching a power line, your first step should be to call the utility company. A technician will assess the situation and may trim or clear the problem area themselves as part of their utility line clearance efforts. This is most likely to happen if the tree is on public property or it threatens major power lines.
You’ll have to call an arborist and cover the cost of the work if the tree’s on your property. The tree company will coordinate with the utility company to temporarily shut off power to ensure safety.
A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way
If a tree hasn’t yet made contact with the line but seems to be inching closer, now’s the time to act. Regular pruning, smart planting (keeping trees at least 20 feet away from lines), and professional inspections can reduce the likelihood of trouble and power outage risks. Maintaining plenty of space between the trees and the wires prevents contact.
Call The Heart of Wood’s Experts To Handle Trees Near Power Lines
If there’s a tree touching power lines in your yard, call The Heart of Wood for professional tree removal and trimming services in Alexandria, VA. We have experience dealing with high-risk trees and know how to cut or remove the tree safely. Hiring an arborist is the only way to handle this situation without risk, so call us at (571) 482-0996 or reach out online to schedule service.