The sound of chainsaws filled the air Wednesday as residents and emergency crews cut downed trees.
In the Spokane city limits, crews will only clear trees that are in the street, otherwise a downed tree is the responsibility of property owners. Report a blocking tree to the city at (509) 625-7733. This is also the line to report a damaged vehicle under a fallen tree -- but when crews come, the registered owner of the vehicle must also be there to permit the car to be towed.
The City of Spokane has posted a list of Certified Arborists permitted to fell trees.
Those in the city cleaning their own storm debris can put branches smaller than 3" diameter in the green yard bins. Larger debris can go to the Northside Landfill, 5502 W. Nine Mile Road, or to the Waste to Energy plant at 2900 S. Geiger Blvd. Both are free for residents until Friday Nov. 20. Hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Kootenai County operates two waste transfer stations, open daily from 8 a.m.-4:55 p.m. (All customers must be unloaded and out by 5 p.m.) The Coeur d'Alene station is located at 3650 N. Ramsey Road, the Post Falls Station is at 15580 W. Prairie Avenue.
When clearing trees or other debris, power companies warn to be careful. There could be high-voltage power lines entwined in the limbs or damaged equipment. Avista offers these tips:
- Note where power lines are located before you get started on a project.
- Assume all lines are energized.
- Never bring ladders, long-handled tools or other items within 10 feet of an overhead power line.
- Be careful when trimming trees. Stay at least 10 feet away from power lines.