Determine if the Tree is Dead or Dying With the exception of trees for wildlife where structures or human traffic are absent or rare, dead and dying trees should be promptly removed. Felling a large tree is extremely dangerous. Call an expert to do the job. Check for Dead Branches Loggers call dead branches widowmakers and treat them with great respect. Homeowners should do likewise.
Dead limbs are an accident waiting to happen.
They can fall in the slightest breeze, when a mower bumps the tree, or a child climbs in it. They sometimes give way even on a calm day. Dead limbs are a red-flag signal for prompt action. Check for Branches that Cross or Rub Branches that cross or rub invariably lead to weak spots. These should be pruned off as soon as they are spotted, and the smaller the better.