MDC Urges Caution During Storm Damage Cleanup

Many residents in Northwest Missouri are still dealing with damaged trees and downed limbs following the strong winds from the storm front that moved through on December 15.

Foresters for the Missouri Department of Conservation urge caution as people begin to assess and remove the damage.

Any damaged trees or limbs tangled in utility lines should be left for experts to clear.

Utilities should be notified of problems.

If there is no danger from electrical lines, limbs that are on a home or blocking driveway or street access can be removed.

Large limbs still connected to trees, downed trees, or split trees can pose unseen dangers for someone using a chainsaw.

Their weight and tensions can cause kickbacks or falls in unexpected directions, said Chuck Conner, MDC community forester.

MDC foresters recommend that property owners hire a certified arborist to remove damaged branches or trees.