Trees and power lines were never meant to inhabit the same spaces. I was reminded of this fact while on a recent home visit to check on two mature crape myrtles growing at the entrance of the homeowners’ driveway. We were looking for signs of insect infestation, but immediately noticed that the trees’ branches were entwined in power lines. Attempting to prune a tree that has grown into the power lines is at the top of the “Do not try this at home” list for property owners, right above pruning with a chainsaw while standing on a stepladder.

Trees and power lines were never meant to inhabit the same spaces. Fallen trees are a major cause of utility line damage and power outages. Always assume that downed power lines are live. Trees that touch live wires conduct electricity, posing a danger to humans and animals. Tree branches that contact live power lines may show burned patches and can ignite.

While we love our trees, we also love the electricity that lets us power equipment like...