For homeowners
Should I use a chainsaw to clear storm damage myself?
Short answer
No. Storm-damaged wood is unpredictable, and chainsaw and fall injuries are a real risk during storm cleanup. Leave tree cutting to an insured pro, and never go near anything touching a power line.
By Umair Nawaz. Published October 25, 2026. General information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
The longer answer
Storm-damaged limbs and trunks can be under tension and spring or roll when cut. Trees can be hung up in other trees and fall without warning. Cuts and falls are serious risks during storm cleanup.
Do not climb a damaged tree or use a ladder with a chainsaw. Never go near anything that touches or is close to a power line.
What you can safely do is pick up small branches off the ground by hand with gloves and sturdy shoes, as long as they are clear of lines and away from damaged trees. For anything bigger, call a local insured tree service.
This is general information, not legal advice.
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Hiring a tree service?
Plain guides for homeowners
Safety first: stay away from downed power lines and call the utility; call 911 if anyone is in danger. Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
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