Summer storms in the West Island can be brutal. High winds, heavy rain, and lightning regularly snap branches, split trunks, and uproot entire trees across Pointe-Claire, Kirkland, DDO, and Pierrefonds. The hours after a storm are critical — acting quickly and safely can prevent further damage to your home and protect your family. But rushing outside without a plan can put you in serious danger. Here is a step-by-step checklist for assessing your trees after a storm.
Step One: Assess from Inside First
Before stepping outside, look through your windows. Scan your property for downed trees, hanging branches, and anything touching your house or power lines. If you see a tree or branch on power lines, do not go outside near that area. Downed lines can energize the ground around them, creating a lethal zone you cannot see. Stay at least 10 metres away from any downed or low-hanging wires at all times. Call Hydro-Quebec emergencies at 1-800-790-2424 immediately and do not approach until they confirm the line is de-energized.
Step Two: Identify True Emergencies
Not all storm damage requires immediate action. True emergencies include trees or large branches resting on your house, trees leaning against power lines, trees blocking your driveway or road access, and large hanging branches directly over areas where people walk. These situations need a professional arborist with emergency equipment. Do not attempt to remove trees or branches that are under tension — they can snap unpredictably with lethal force when cut. Service d'Arbres Brandse offers 24/7 emergency storm response across the West Island.
Step Three: What Can Wait
Many types of storm damage look alarming but are not urgent. Small branches scattered across the yard, a tree that lost some canopy but is still standing upright, or bark damage on the trunk can all wait for a scheduled assessment. Even a split branch that is resting on the ground and not threatening any structure can be left for a day or two. Prioritize safety over aesthetics — a broken branch that is out of the way is not an emergency, even if it looks bad.
Step Four: Document Everything
Once it is safe to walk your property, take photos and videos of all damage from multiple angles. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and for your arborist to assess the situation accurately. Note which trees are affected, approximately how large the damaged sections are, and whether any structures were hit. Most home insurance policies in Quebec cover storm damage to structures caused by fallen trees, but the claim process moves faster with thorough documentation.
Get Help Fast When You Need It
After a major storm, tree service companies in the West Island get overwhelmed quickly. Having a trusted arborist you can call makes all the difference. Service d'Arbres Brandse provides 24/7 emergency storm response for homeowners across the West Island. We prioritize safety hazards — trees on houses, near power lines, and blocking access — and can usually be on site within hours. Save our number before the next storm hits: (438) 365-5410. When the wind stops, we are already on the way.