Trees provide various benefits to the environment. Although some can survive without proper care, others, especially those around humans should be taken care of properly. Besides, taking care of trees can be a great way to give back for everything they’ve done for us.
But what happens if humans fail to take care of trees? For instance, if you have a few trees around your yard, it’s your responsibility to take care of them. If not, they can become hazardous. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common tree-related accidents and instances if you neglect the trees around you.
1. Falling Branches
One of the most common accidents you may encounter with neglected trees is the danger of falling branches. Whether the branches are weak, dead, or damaged, they should be taken care of properly. For instance, after a natural disaster, like a typhoon, hiring an arborist is essential to check the status of the nearby trees.
If you fail to prevent pruning weak branches, they can easily fall and can cause accidents and damage properties. And even before a typhoon comes, if the trees around you are properly maintained, there are fewer worries about the status of the branches post-typhoon.
2. Tree Uprooting
Another thing you can prevent when the tree is properly maintained and checked by a professional arborist is uprooting. You may not notice, but a neglected tree has a chance of gradually being uprooted with all the things it has gone through.
Some of the factors that may affect the uprooting of trees are flooding, overwatering, and exposure of roots. In some cases, even if there are no floods, and you don’t overwater the trees, they might grow with their roots exposed, and not being able to hold on to enough soil.
3. Interference with Power Lines
Powerlines can also be affected by neglected trees. If the crown grows too much, a simple wind can damage the powerlines, and initial sparks or even power outages. During storms, you can also experience fire, especially if the sparks or a live wire come in contact with water.
So, as early as possible, prune the trees to avoid possible power-related incidents. If possible, you should contact your arborist and ask if they offer tree removal services, or transfer the tree to a less busy area.
4. Broken Tree Branches Leading to Traffic Accidents
There are instances in which a broken tree branch or a tree cut in half can cause traffic accidents. For instance, if a huge tree branch suddenly falls, and a driver doesn’t see it right away, it can block their way, damage the car, and hurt the driver and other people. In worst-case scenarios, it can be a clash of vehicles that may lead to multiple accidents.
5. Root Damage to Properties
The placement of trees is also essential when taking care of them. So, if you notice that a tree can grow too big that it can damage the walkway, sidewalks, and other properties, it’s best to call an arborist immediately. Since they’re aware of the various species of trees, they can provide the right advice as to what’s the best way to resolve the problem.
For instance, they can transfer the tree to another place where it can grow to its full potential.
6. Fires from Dead Trees
Trees that aren’t taken care of properly can die. And when they do, they gradually dry, and can easily ignite fire. For instance, during summer, many things can happen where the dead tree can be exposed to flames or fire-hazard substances.
So, if you want to avoid this, the moment you notice that something’s wrong with the tree, you should immediately call an arborist. That way, they can diagnose if the tree can still be saved. If not, they usually offer tree removal services to avoid further damage.
7. Infestations and Diseases
Neglected trees, dead or alive, are prone to diseases and infestations. Unfortunately, if you further ignore an infested tree, it can damage other plants and trees, including your home. For instance, if a dead tree obtains termites, they can transfer to any wooden object, including your door and other part of your house.
The Importance of Professional Tree Care
Regular tree maintenance is vital, especially if you’re surrounded by big ones. By consulting with a professional arborist, you don’t need to worry about doing things like pruning and observing the progress of your tree. However, you should still observe them from time to time.
Final Thoughts
Even if you’re not the one who planted the trees, it’s your responsibility as the property owner to take care of them. Besides, when you do, you can benefit from them more than your efforts to help them live long. So, if you want to avoid any tree-related accidents, it’s best to start maintaining them today.
