Check trees before Santa Ana winds

What you'll learn

• How to spot dead hangers, hanging limbs, and fresh soil movement from the ground
• Why some eucalyptus and oak limbs can fail on hot, calm days, not only in wind
• When to call SDG&E for a tree near a line, and when to call 911 and SDG&E for a downed line
• How to document damage for an insurer without approaching an unstable tree

Step by step

1. From the ground, photograph dead hangers, fresh cracks, and trees that could hit a roof, driveway, or line. Do not stand under them.
2. Bring in patio furniture and other loose yard items so wind cannot throw them.
3. Save your insurer's claims number. California Department of Insurance says damage a fallen tree does to the insured home is generally a homeowners claim, subject to the policy. A vehicle usually needs comprehensive auto coverage. Confirm any tree-removal allowance and deductible with your insurer.
4. If a standing tree is approaching a line, stay away and call SDG&E at 1-800-411-7343. If a line is down, stay away and call 911 and SDG&E at 1-800-411-7343 from a safe place. Do not test whether the line is live.
5. After emergency crews and the utility release the scene, we can match you with a licensed independent crew for cleanup. Do not climb or cut unstable wood.

Further reading

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