Before the wind. A clearer plan.

Start with the tree and the space around it.

When Santa Ana winds are in the forecast, it is natural to look up at the largest tree on the property. Size alone does not tell the whole story. We want to understand what has changed, where people spend time, and what is beneath the branches.

For properties in the San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita Valley, a useful preparation plan starts before the wind arrives. Keep notes about tree work, changes around the roots, and concerns you have noticed. Check the National Weather Service Los Angeles forecast and alerts for current conditions at your location.

Give concerns a clear description.

You do not need to diagnose the tree before contacting us. Tell us whether you have noticed a broken or hanging branch, a visible split, a change in the tree’s position, or damage around its base. A photograph can help explain the concern when taken from a safe place; it cannot establish that a tree is safe.

Describe what is nearby, too: a bedroom, parking space, shared walkway, playground, roof or utility line. The International Society of Arboriculture’s tree-risk guidance explains why the tree and the people or property around it should be considered together. A qualified arborist can assess concerns and discuss management options.

Pruning needs a purpose.

“Make it smaller” is a starting question, not a complete pruning specification. Discuss which branches need attention, the clearance you want, and how the work will affect the tree’s structure. Timing and the amount of pruning should suit the tree and its condition.

Heavy topping is not a shortcut to a safer tree. ISA’s pruning guidance explains that topping can contribute to stress, decay and unacceptable risk. No pruning plan makes a tree storm-proof. Our tree trimming page explains how we approach pruning objectives and property access.

If a tree or large branch has already fallen.

Keep people and pets away from the damaged tree and the area around it. Do not climb on it or begin cutting. If there is immediate danger, call emergency services.

Stay away from downed wires and anything touching them. Report the situation to emergency services and the utility. The National Weather Service’s guidance after high winds emphasizes keeping clear of downed power lines and continuing to follow local updates.

Once you are in a safe place, call (818) 919-4664 to discuss the tree, location and availability. Our emergency tree removal page outlines the information that helps us understand the situation. An online estimate request is not a substitute for emergency services.

Make the first call useful.

• Location: the address and where the tree is on the property.
• What changed: a fallen tree, broken limb or other concern, and when you noticed it.
• What is affected: buildings, vehicles, paths, access gates or utility lines.
• Site contact: who can coordinate access and approve the proposed work.
• Photos: only images you can take without approaching the hazard.

For community and commercial properties.

A board or property manager also needs a communication plan. Identify the decision-maker, site contact, areas that may need temporary closure, and how residents or tenants will receive updates. Keep the estimate and agreed scope together so the next person reviewing the work can follow the decisions.

For planned work, see our HOA tree services and commercial tree services. We can discuss the trees, access and cleanup requirements with the people responsible for the property.