Even if you think you're finished with yard work for the year, a nasty autumn or winter storm could blow through and knock down a tree, blow shingles off, or shake branches loose, creating a mess on your property. When that happens, you may need a professional to pick up the pieces. Below are some essential storm cleanup tips to help you decide if you need assistance.

Suggestions for Storm Cleanup

1. Complete a Thorough Walk-Through

Take a detailed tour of your property and assess the damage. This helps you understand how much work is involved in the cleanup. For instance, if you spot a fallen tree, you can decide if you have the tools, desire, and physical wherewithal to handle tree removal. If not, you can examine your options. Perhaps you can borrow the necessary equipment, or maybe you'd rather hire out the work.

2. Wear Protective Clothing

If you decide to tackle the job yourself, wear goggles to keep wood chips and other flying debris out of your eyes. Wear hard boots to protect your feet from heavy log rollovers, and don thick gloves to guard against blisters and splinters. If you’re using a chainsaw or other power equipment, do not wear a scarf, a tie, or other loose clothing that could catch in the motor.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Storm debris can result in a lot of waste material. Separate roofing shingles from organic matter and toss them in the trash. If you have a wood chipper, feed fallen branches into it and create mulch or ground cover. Larger branches and trunks require a chainsaw; cut them up for firewood or consult your local waste management service to see if they pick up storm debris along with trash. You may need to deliver it to a nearby municipal lot. If you hire a professional service, they will likely take care of disposal for you.

If a storm comes through your area, contact Bluegrass Tree Service, LLC, in Florence, KY, for storm cleanup. They have served residents of northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati for more than 15 years and have a reputation for prompt, thorough service. They also specialize in tree pruning, stump removal, and lot clearing and offer emergency tree service. Check out their services on their website, and call (859) 746-0708 for a free estimate.