Imagine stepping outside, coffee in hand, ready to start your day—then bam! You notice a massive fallen tree blocking your driveway. Probably not exactly what you expected to see when walking out your door. But don’t worry, you’ve got this. Knowing what to do if a fallen tree is blocking your driveway can turn this chaotic moment into a manageable one.

First, Breathe (Seriously)

I know, “Breathe?! There’s a TREE in my driveway!” But trust me—taking a deep breath helps clear your mind. Panicking will only make things worse, especially if you’ve got an ADHD brain that thrives on structure. So, breathe first, then take action.

Once you’ve got your cool, quickly check for any additional damage (like if it’s crushing your prized garden gnome or worse, your car). DO NOT touch anything yet! Step back, and make sure it’s safe to approach since there may be hazards like power lines or hanging branches.

Making the Call: Who To Contact and Why

Once you’ve done the initial assessment, it’s time to start making some calls. If the tree is near power lines, contact your local utility company immediately—they’ll clear it safely. If it’s just a big ol’ tree without power lines nearby, give a tree removal service or your city’s public works department a ring.

While you’re on the phone, take a moment to channel your inner detective. Why did the tree fall? Was it old or sick, or did a storm cause it to snap? Understanding why the tree fell helps for future prevention and is imperative when dealing with insurance claims. This also means snapping pictures once you get off the phone.

Can This Tree Be Saved? Maybe, Maybe Not

If you’re wondering how to assess if a storm-damaged tree can be saved, here’s the deal: healthy trees with minimal damage can bounce back with some care. But if there’s visible root damage, deep trunk splits, or a fallen canopy, it’s likely beyond saving. A professional arborist can give you the final verdict on whether your tree has a chance.

What About DIY Tree Removal?

Unless you moonlight as a lumberjack (if you do, wow, respect), leave the tree removal to the experts. One wrong cut could send branches flying or create even bigger hazards. A professional will know which limb to tackle first and will have all the fancy tools to handle it safely. What you can do is clear small branches or debris once the area is safe.

Wrapping It Up and Moving Along

You’ve assessed the situation, made the calls, taken photos, and cleared smaller messes. Now, relax—everything’s under control. Whether the pros handle the heavy lifting or a well-meaning neighbor steps in (proceed with caution), you’ve done all you can.

The moral here is that trees are unpredictable, but you know how to stay prepared. The next time someone asks what to do if a fallen tree is blocking your driveway, you’ll chuckle, sip your coffee, and say, “Oh, I’ve got this.”