Check your trees before Santa Ana winds

What you'll learn

• How to notice dead hangers, dangling branches, and new soil shifts from the ground
• Why certain eucalyptus and oak limbs might break on hot, still days instead of just during wind
• When to reach out to SDG&E about a tree near a wire, and when to call 911 and SDG&E for a downed wire
• How to record damage for your insurance company without getting close to an unsafe tree

Step by step

1. From the ground, take pictures of dead hangers, new cracks, and trees that might strike a roof, driveway, or wire. Never stand underneath them.
2. Move patio furniture and other loose yard items inside so wind can't throw them around.
3. Keep your insurance claims number handy. The California Department of Insurance notes that damage a fallen tree causes to an insured home is usually a homeowners claim, depending on the policy. A car typically needs comprehensive auto coverage. Ask your insurer about any tree removal allowance and your deductible.
4. If a standing tree is leaning toward a wire, keep your distance and call SDG&E at 1-800-411-7343. If a wire is already down, stay back and call 911 plus SDG&E at 1-800-411-7343 from somewhere safe. Never try to find out if the wire is live.
5. Once emergency crews and the utility clear the area, Limb SD can connect you with a licensed, insured independent tree pro for cleanup. Never climb or cut unstable wood yourself.

Further reading

• SDG&E: guidance for downed power lines
• SDG&E: power-outage safety
• California Department of Insurance: guidance on fallen tree coverage
• UC ANR: summer branch drop
• ISA: Pruning Mature Trees