1. Think Safety First
Before you start any cleanup, prioritize safety:
– Survey your property for downed power lines, gas leaks, and unstable trees or structures. If you encounter any of these hazards, contact the relevant utility companies and emergency services immediately.
– Wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves, sturdy boots, and safety goggles to protect yourself from sharp debris and hazardous materials.
2. Take Photos to Document the Damage**
For insurance purposes, take detailed photographs and notes of the damage to your property. This documentation will be vital when filing insurance claims and ensuring you receive the necessary compensation for repairs.
3. Remove Debris
Start by clearing smaller debris such as branches, leaves, using rakes, brooms, and garbage bags to gather and dispose of smaller debris. This will make it easier to tackle larger items and fallen trees. Be careful around cautious of potentially hazardous materials like broken glass, nails, and sharp metal objects. Handle these with care to avoid injury.
4. Tree Removal and Pruning
After the storm the most significant challenge can be dealing with damaged trees. Here’s what you should do:
– Look for trees that are leaning dangerously, have split trunks, or have large broken branches. These trees may need to be removed entirely.
– For trees that are salvageable, prune broken or damaged branches. This will help the tree recover and prevent further damage in the future.
– Seek professional help for large or dangerous tree removal. It’s best to hire a professional tree service as attempting to remove large trees yourself can be extremely dangerous. Thornton’s Tree Service crews are on call 24/7/365 so call anytime you need professional tree removal.
5. Check for Structural Damage
Inspect your home and other structures on your property for damage:
– Look for missing roof shingles, water leaks, and other roof damage. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further water damage.
– Check your fences, sheds, and other outbuildings for damage. Repair as needed to ensure they remain secure.
7. **Prevent Future Damage**
Take steps to mitigate future storm damage, this can save you time and money in the long run:
– Regularly prune your trees and shrubs to prevent overgrowth and reduce the risk of storm damage.
8. Seek Professional Help
If the cleanup task feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance:
– Thornton’s Tree Service crews can handle large tree removals, pruning, and stump grinding, ensuring your property is safe and looks its best.
Storm cleanup can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can restore your property safely and efficiently. Remember to prioritize safety, document the damage, and seek professional help when needed. Thornton’s Tree Service is here to assist with all your tree care and removal needs. Contact us today we can help you recover after the storm.
