Emergency Tree Removal in Northern Ontario: What to Do After a Storm

Northern Ontario is no stranger to severe weather. Ice storms, heavy snowfall, and summer thunderstorms can bring down trees — sometimes onto homes, vehicles, fences, and power lines. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath of storm damage can protect your family and prevent further damage to your property.

Step 1: Stay Safe — Don't Approach a Fallen Tree Near Power Lines

If a tree has fallen on or near power lines, treat all lines as live and dangerous. Stay at least 10 metres away and call your utility provider immediately. Do not attempt to move the tree yourself under any circumstances. Wait for the utility company to confirm the lines are de-energized before allowing anyone near the area.

Step 2: Assess the Damage from a Safe Distance

Once you've confirmed there are no live electrical hazards, assess the situation from a safe distance. Is the tree resting on your home? Is it blocking a road or driveway? Is there a risk of further trees or branches coming down? Document the damage with photos for your insurance claim.

Step 3: Call Your Insurance Company

If a tree has fallen on a structure — your home, garage, fence, or vehicle — call your insurance company as soon as possible. Most home insurance policies cover emergency tree removal when a tree has damaged an insured structure. Document everything thoroughly with photos and video before any cleanup begins.

Step 4: Call a Professional Tree Service

Do not attempt to cut up or remove a fallen tree yourself, especially if it's under tension (bent or pinched by weight). A tree under tension can spring back violently when cut, causing serious injury. Professional tree services have the training and equipment to safely remove trees in complex, dangerous situations.

Ian's Tree Service — 24/7 Emergency Response

Ian's Tree Service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency tree removal across Northern Ontario. Whether you're in Temiskaming Shores, Kirkland Lake, New Liskeard, Englehart, Cobalt, Elk Lake, Temagami, or anywhere in the surrounding area — text Ian at 705-308-3976 and we'll respond as quickly as possible.

Preventing Storm Damage: Proactive Tree Care

The best way to deal with storm damage is to prevent it before it happens. Regular tree inspections, removal of dead or structurally compromised trees, and professional pruning to reduce wind resistance can significantly reduce the risk of storm damage on your property. Contact Ian's Tree Service before storm season for a property assessment in Kirkland Lake, Temiskaming Shores, or any of our service areas.