Living near power lines is a reality for many homeowners in more urban areas. While the overhead transmission of electricity is efficient and cost-effective, you need to be aware of the potential dangers it poses when it’s in close proximity to trees. Trees are a beautiful and practical part of any landscape, but when they interact with power lines, the results can be quite hazardous. We’ll help you understand the dangers of power lines near trees and tell you how to minimize the risks.
Electrical Dangers
Trees that are too close to power lines can pose a significant electrical hazard. If damp branches touch a power line, the electricity can flow through the tree, creating an extremely dangerous situation. It’s not just the tree that’s at risk—the electrical current can also temporarily electrify the bark and harm those who happen to touch it. This can result in injury or even death, so it’s vital that you mitigate the issue immediately if your trees are too close to power lines.
Fire Risks
Trees that are near power lines can also increase the risk of fires. This happens when a tree branch or other debris falls onto the power lines, causing sparks or igniting a fire. Fire can damage your property and put the lives of your family and neighbors in danger. To prevent this, monitor the trees and trim them regularly to keep them a safe distance from the power lines.
Power Outages
Another danger associated with trees near power lines that you should understand is the potential for power outages. If a tree branch falls onto the power lines, it can cause a disruption in the electrical supply for your home and, potentially, the rest of the neighborhood. This can be incredibly inconvenient and frustrating, especially if it happens frequently. By properly managing the trees on your property, you can prevent this and keep your home operating reliably.
Legal Implications
In addition to the risks to life and property, there may also be legal implications to consider. If a tree on your property is too close to a power line and causes damage or injury, you may be liable for them. This could be financially devastating for you and your family. Taking proactive steps to prevent this situation from occurring is an important part of responsible home ownership.
If you want to avoid these common dangers, the first step is to properly manage the trees on your property. This means regularly monitoring their growth and trimming them when necessary to keep them a safe distance from power lines. You may also want to consider removing trees that are too close to power lines, especially if they’re older or in poor health. Watts Tree Service has a team of professional arborists that can help you with everything from line clearance tree trimming to full tree removal. So don’t wait another day to ensure your property is as safe as possible. Reach out to us today to learn more.
Last modified: September 8, 2023
