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September is National Preparedness Month, which is a reminder to prepare for emergencies before they happen. While many preparedness plans focus on emergency supplies, communication plans, and severe weather alerts, your property deserves attention too. Trees are an important part of any landscape, but unhealthy or structurally compromised trees can become a serious concern when exposed to high winds, heavy rain, lightning, or saturated soil. Taking time to evaluate your trees before severe weather arrives can help identify potential problems and give you an opportunity to address them while conditions are safe.
Trees don't always give obvious indications that they are at risk of failure. Some problems develop gradually, while others become more apparent after storms or periods of environmental stress. Dead branches, cracked limbs, cavities, decay, hanging branches, and changes in a tree's natural lean can all warrant closer attention. The location of a tree is also important when evaluating potential risk. A tree growing in an open area may have fewer consequences if a branch fails than one positioned directly over a house, driveway, sidewalk, vehicle, or frequently used outdoor space. Trees near structures and high-traffic areas should be monitored regularly so potential hazards can be addressed before they become emergencies.
A professional tree assessment can provide a more thorough evaluation than a visual inspection alone. An arborist can examine the tree's structure and overall condition and help determine whether pruning, additional support, monitoring, or removal is appropriate.
One of the most effective ways to reduce tree-related storm hazards is to address existing problems before severe weather arrives. Dead and damaged branches can be removed through proper pruning, while structurally weak trees may require additional attention to improve their safety and stability. Some trees with specific structural concerns may benefit from cabling and bracing. These systems can provide supplemental support to certain branches or tree structures when recommended by a qualified professional. In other situations, pruning or removal may be the better option. Preventive tree care is especially valuable because storm conditions can turn relatively minor defects into significant hazards. Taking care of concerns ahead of time gives property owners more control over how those risks are managed.
Even trees that appeared healthy before a storm can sustain damage. Once severe weather has passed and it is safe to be outside, check your property for broken limbs, hanging branches, damaged trunks, exposed roots, leaning trees with upheaved soil, or trees that have shifted or begun leaning.
Use extra caution around storm-damaged trees. A broken branch can remain suspended in the canopy, while branches under tension can move unexpectedly when disturbed. Never attempt to handle a tree or branch that has fallen on or near a power line. Stay away from the area and contact the appropriate utility provider or emergency personnel. For significant storm damage, professional assistance is the safest option. Experienced tree care professionals have the equipment and training necessary to assess hazardous conditions and safely manage damaged trees and branches.
Preparing your property for severe weather shouldn't begin when the forecast changes. Regular tree inspections and proactive maintenance can help you identify potential hazards while giving you time to determine the best course of action. At Birchcrest Tree & Landscape, we provide professional tree care services designed to help homeowners maintain safe, healthy, and beautiful landscapes throughout Western New York. From tree inspections and pruning to tree removal, cabling and bracing, and Plant Healthcare, our team can help address tree concerns before they become larger problems.
This National Preparedness Month, look beyond your emergency supplies and take a closer look at the trees around your property. Preparing your landscape now can help you feel more confident when the next storm arrives. Contact Birchcrest Tree & Landscape to schedule a professional tree inspection. And don't forget, we offer 24/7 emergency services, call us when we are needed.
