What should I do if a tree branch is touching or near power lines?

Power lines can be deadly, and a tree touching a line can carry electricity. Stay back and keep children and pets back too. Never try to trim, pull, or move a branch that is near a line, and never use a ladder, pole saw, or a metal tool close to wires.

Call the electric company first. Many utilities trim or remove trees that grow into their lines, and some do it at no charge to you. The rules differ by company and by line type, so ask. Give them the street address and describe what you see.

If a line has fallen, is sparking, or is on the ground or on a tree, treat it as live. Stay many feet back, warn others, and call 911 and the utility. Do not drive over it.

Work near live lines needs special training. A regular tree crew should not do it unless its workers are qualified for line clearance. Ask any company that offers to do the work if it is trained for that, and ask for proof.

After the danger has passed, a company can help with the rest of the tree. If you want to prevent this problem, ask an arborist about plants that suit places near wires when you plant new trees.

This is a short safety explanation, not professional advice.