iVillage

How Safe Are Your Trees?

Worried your trees might fall after a bad storm? Here are the warning signs to look for (13 Photos)

Jennifer Steil on Oct 30, 2012 at 10:25AM

chime in now

Single View
View All

2 of 13

Charriau Pierre/Getty Images

Red Flag: Large Dead Branches

Dead limbs, often called “widowmakers” by loggers, are an accident waiting to happen. The slightest disturbance can cause them to fall. These limbs can tumble even on a calm day, so make sure you get them removed. They may also suggest the tree itself is in ill health, and in need of a check-up by an arborist.