CLEANING UP: Local yards looked pretty shabby after the recent rainstorms.

The Tree Care Industry Association has passed along some tips for cleaning up.

The association starts by advising what to do if a utility line is down. “Call the utility company immediately,” they stated.

It’s very important, too, to assume the line is capable of electrocuting you, the association indicated. Stay away from the line, and don’t touch anything near the line. If a downed line is hidden by brush or foliage, contact a tree care professional to help.

When cleaning up large trees and branches, “Examine the shape and lean of the tree,” the association recommends. “Inspect the trunk for decay, weak spots or hanging limbs and look for any metal or concrete in or around the tree. If any of these features are present, the tree may be unstable and extra precautions need to be taken before removing the tree.”

When trimming branches, “Ask yourself, ‘What will happen when I cut this branch/tree?’ Consider all the possibilities.”

Don’t use a chain saw unless you have experience, and think about where a branch is going to fall — and how you will get out of the way — when cutting.

For big tree removal jobs — trees more than 20 feet tall and work requiring a ladder — think about hiring a tree care professional. It’s not worth getting hurt.

As the association notes, “For safe and efficient post-storm work, hire a tree care professional with the experience, expertise and equipment to safely take down or prune damaged trees. Additionally, tree care pros should carry liability insurance.”

To find a local association member to help, call 1-800-733-2622 or search by ZIP code at www.treecaretips.org.