Arborists in Pittsburgh, PA describe how homeowners should handle trees that come in contact with power lines and how to avoid this in the future
What Happens When Trees Are Too Close to Wires?
Many homeowners pay a good deal of attention to information about proper tree care like tree trimming or tree pruning, but not everyone pays enough attention to the importance of where the trees should be planted. In particular, homeowners often do not give enough attention to the proximity of their trees relative to power lines.
This is of extreme importance given the potential hazards when trees get too close to wires. It is not only dangerous for the health of the tree itself, but it can also be hazardous to homeowners and their families, as will be discussed below. When trees are too close to wires, this poses a severe electrical hazard. Continue reading for information on the potential dangers and the importance of choosing the right location when planting trees.
Potential Dangers
The primary danger that comes when trees are planted too close to power lines is that there is a high risk of electrical shock, which can be potentially lethal to people around the tree depending on the circumstances. Here are some related dangers:
- Electrocution
- Fires due to sparks
- Full-blown power outages
- Temporary power interruptions
Sometimes many of these dangers can occur simultaneously, which is most certainly the worst-case scenario. Given the severity of these potential issues, homeowners should take good care to pay attention to the surrounding areas when it comes time to plant new trees.
Select the Right Location when Tree Planting
There are a number of different things that go into planting a tree in the right location, far and away from power lines. Of course, this is in reference to trees that are being newly planted. For existing trees, homeowners should hire a tree service company. But with regards to planting new trees, homeowners should pay particular attention to the following:
- Electrical equipment – if there are things like transformers or electrical meters nearby, steer clear and away from these
- Height – check the expected height of the tree and compare this to the height of any power lines nearby
- Nearby utility services (underground) – underground utilities or utility services (e.g. wires, pipes, cables, etc.) are an important consideration since they can come into contact with the tree roots
Given everything that goes into proper tree planting and maintenance in the context of power lines, homeowners should consider seeking professional help.
Seek the Help of a Professional!
Professional arborists are experts when it comes to planting trees in safe locations and managing trees that may come in contact with power lines. When these experts originally come on-site, they will conduct a tree risk assessment to determine if existing trees are located in areas of concern.
They will also be able to take stock of existing tree health care and recommend tree removal if need be, especially if trees are located in a hazardous area. For homeowners that want to plant trees, they will also be able to make location recommendations and help with the planting itself!
About Greater Pitt Tree Service
Greater Pitt Tree Service of Pittsburgh PA has been providing affordable, best-in-class residential and commercial tree services for over 28 years. Their team of experts prioritizes accurate solutions and safe practices, and they create customized solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each of their customers. Call them for help today!