Derbyshire residents urged to check their trees ahead of arrival of Storm Dennis

The Met Office has issued a yellow ‘be aware’ warning of wind for Derbyshire between 10am on Saturday and 12pm on Sunday.

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The Derbyshire Building Control Partnership (DBCP) is now urging people to check the condition of their trees and has issued this list on warning signs to look out for:

Branches

- Broken and damaged branches

- Dead branches

- Cracks where the branches meet the trunk

Trunks

- Cracks and cavities

- Fungal growth

- Trunk stems which separate in a ‘V’ formation

Roots

- Fungi on anchoring roots which are exposed to the surface

- Cracked soil surrounding the base of the tree

- Cavities or hollows at the base of the tree where it meets the anchoring root

A DBCP spokesperson said: “When a tree or branch falls on a property it can be catastrophic.

“As well as putting lives at risk, the extent of the damage caused by a fallen tree can render the property uninhabitable.

“You can mitigate the risks – trees surrounding your home should be checked periodically.

“If you are unsure of the condition of your trees, contact an arborologist.

“And if the worst does happen either to your property or someone else’s, get in touchwith DBCP who can ensure the safety of your property and its occupants.Call us on 0330 880 2000 or make the report online here.”

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