How To Spot a Potentially Dangerous Tree

by John Wren
How To Spot a Potentially Dangerous Tree

Dead, decaying, and pest-infested trees can pose a significant threat to both people and property. And while the dangers are very real, the signs of a problematic tree aren’t always so obvious. Read on to learn how to spot a potentially dangerous tree on your property or during a jaunt through the woods.

Uneven Growth

Trees exhibiting uneven growth, wherein one side has a heavier concentration of branches and leaves, possess a higher risk of instability. This is called an unbalanced crown, and trees with this problem are more susceptible to falling, potentially causing significant damage to anything beneath it. While an unbalanced tree does not inherently pose a danger, the risk amplifies if the tree contracts a disease or encounters a strong storm. The additional weight or stress from these factors can compromise the tree’s stability, elevating the potential for harm. Monitoring such trees closely and taking preventative measures when necessary is crucial.

Widow-Maker Branches

Widow-makers are dead branches that are caught in tree canopies and could fall at any moment without announcing the fall with a snapping or cracking sound. The absence of a snapping sound, which usually signals a branch’s impending fall, increases the risk of injury or property damage, as people may not have sufficient warning to move out of the way.

Spotting these branches before they become potentially dangerous falling projectiles isn’t so simple, but a few signs indicate widow-makers in the canopy above. First, if you notice many fallen and dead branches beneath your tree, inspect them for a light-colored interior or signs of rot. Once you identify the fallen branches as widow-makers, hire a professional to remove any loose branches in the tree canopy safely.

Learning to spot widow-makers in the wilderness is a vital camping and hiking skill. Never set up your campsite underneath a tree with many fallen branches and a high-up canopy.

Decayed or Damaged Bark

Damaged or decayed bark often manifests as discolored patches, deep cracks, or areas where the bark is missing entirely, revealing the inner wood of the tree. This damage can signify the tree is suffering from a disease, pest infestation, or physical trauma. The bark of a tree serves as its protective shield, safeguarding it from external threats, such as harsh weather conditions and pests. When this shield is compromised, it exposes the tree to these threats, weakening its overall health and stability. Over time, severe damage or decay can lead to the death of the tree. A tree with damaged or decayed bark poses a hazard, as it becomes more susceptible to falling, especially under strong winds or heavy snowfall. This can result in significant property damage or personal injury. Noticing a decaying or damaged tree is one of the great reasons to call for emergency tree services.

Bestseller No. 1
CRAFTSMAN Electric Chainsaw, 16 Inch, 12 Amp Corded (CMECS600)
  • POWERFUL MOTOR: 12-Amp motor of corded electric chainsaw helps with tough cuts
  • LOW KICKBACK: This electric chainsaw features a 16-inch low kickback bar and chain
  • AUTO-OILING: Built-in oil window and no priming required
  • TOOL-FREE CHAIN TENSIONING: Easy to adjust chain for ideal cutting performance
  • 3 Year Limited Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
Bestseller No. 2
Mini Chainsaw Cordless 6Inch, Peektook Chain Saw Electric Chainsaw Battery Chainsaw with 2 2.0Amh Battery & 2 Chains, Small Chainsaw Electric Saw with Strong Motor for Tree Trimming, branches cutting
  • 【Powerful 6-Inch Mini Chainsaw 】The motor is the heart of a chainsaw. Peektook electric chainsaw equipped 700W high power pure copper motor that drives the chain to chop at a high speed of...
  • 【Lightweight and Easy to Use】Our chain saw weighs only 2.2lbs, small in size, not scary like a large chain saw. It's comfortable to hold, can be used with one hand and not easy to fatigue for...
  • 【Safe and Reliable】In order to protect you and your family. Our battery chainsaw adopt the strictest 3-fold safety measures: ①Security Lock prevent accidental activation(must hit two different...
  • 【Long Battery Life & Excellent Combo】 The realistic parameter is 21V in a single rechargeable battery, ensure mini saw can keep running 30-45 minutes. Package includes 1 assembled 6'' chainsaw, 2...
  • 【365-DAY Product Guarantee】We are proud of our mini chainsaws so will offer a 365-day guarantee (no need to return product).There is a few use tips and safty tips at the ''product description''...
Bestseller No. 3
Seesii Mini Chainsaw Cordless 6-inch, Handheld Electric Power Chain Saw with 2 Batteries, for Tree Trimming Wood Cutting, Best Gifts for Dad, Husband
  • 【ONE HAND USE CHAINSAW】Our lightweight battery chainsaw, just 2.62 lbs, is perfect for one-handed use without fatigue. Easy for beginners, its cordless design ensures portability in small spaces
  • 【LARGE CAPACITY BATTERY PACK】Our mini cordless chainsaw comes with 2 Pack 2.0 batteries and a fast charger for extended usage. Equipped with self-overload and temperature protection, these...
  • 【EASY to USE】The battery chainsaw comes fully assembled. Simply adjust tightness with the provided wrench. No separate chain installation needed, but monitor chain tension and watch our video for...
  • 【EFFICIENT CUTTING】Seesii's mini chainsaw, with its powerful motor and dual batteries, effortlessly slices through 5.91-inch logs in just 8 seconds. Perfect for wood cutting, pruning, and...
  • 【BEST GIFTS】This chainsaw is not only a practical tool but also a thoughtful gift for husbands or fathers, making it the perfect Father's Day present
Bestseller No. 4
Greenworks 40V 16" Brushless Cordless Chainsaw, 4.0Ah Battery and Charger Included
  • 40V 16” CHAINSAW: Perfect for homeowners that need to tackle yard projects, or storm clean-up
  • BRUSHLESS MOTOR: Provides more power, longer run-times, and extended motor life​
  • CHAIN BRAKE: For added safety and reduced risk of injury
  • AUTOMATIC OILER: Applies oil to bar and chain when needed to ensure durability and optimal use
  • TOOL-LESS TENSIONING: For easy bar and chain maintenance
Bestseller No. 5
Tietoc Chainsaw 6 Inch Mini Electric Chainsaw Cordless Battery Powered, Hand Held Saw for Wood/Trees Trimming, Tools for Household and Garden, Chain Saw Gift for Men Dad Husband Fathers Gardener 2025
  • AWESOME CUTTING POWER - GARDENER FRIENDLY: Super mini chainsaw is equipped with 880 watts high power motor, manganese steel chain & auto oiler system. Cut 6-inch branches with no effort, like a hot...
  • NOT INTIMIDATING, WOMAN FRIENDLY: Slim & lightweight (only 3.3lb, 25% the weight of a bulky larger gas chainsaw), easy to handle and work like a champ, friendly to the elderly, women, arthritis...
  • AUTO OILER-SYSTEM: This mini chainsaw cordless is equipped with auto chain lubrication system. Just pour oil (general motor oil is fine) into the tank, then you can freely lubricate the chain by...
  • LARGE CAPACITY BATTERY: Equipped with 2000mAh removable & rechargeable battery, the cordless mini chainsaw will finish all your cutting, even in the field! It's suitable for wood cutting, garden...
  • SECURITY DESIGNS: 1. Security lock prevents accidental activation (The security lock & start button need to be pressed simultaneously for the chainsaw to start); 2. Safety baffles to prevent the wood...
Bestseller No. 6
Mini Chainsaw 6-Inch with 2 Battery Mini Electric Chain Saws Cordless Handheld Portable Small Chainsaw for Wood Cutting
  • ✁ Multiple Safety Protection - Our battery chainsaw has multiple safety measures to ensure safe and reliable use. Security Lock to prevent accidental start to protect your families. A 100°...
  • ✁ Ready to Use - You can put it into work immediately after receiving this mini cordless chainsaw and just installing the battery, very convenient. We equip you with an extra chain and installation...
  • Large Capacity Battery Pack - The cordless handheld chainsaw with 2 Pack 20V removable, Lithium-ion batteries with self-overload and temperature protection provide a much longer battery life. Hand...
  • ✁ Lightweight and Easy to Use - Weighing only 2.5 lbs, this compact chainsaw is comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Ideal for women, seniors, and anyone who wants a hassle-free...
  • ✁ Excellent Components - Package includes 1 assembled 6'' chainsaw, 2 batteries, 2 chains, 1 goggle, 1 charger etc, ready to use out of the box. Enjoy the double battery life. After the chain wears...
Bestseller No. 7
Oregon CS1500 18-inch 15 Amp Self-Sharpening Corded Electric Chainsaw, with Integrated Self-Sharpening System (PowerSharp), 2-Year Warranty, 120V, Grey, Black
  • Powerful performance: 15A electric chainsaw with integrated PowerSharp self-sharpening system. The perfect chainsaw for homeowners and DIY, with a long-lasting 18-inch guide bar
  • Built-in PowerSharp self-sharpening system minimizes downtime by sharpening your chain in 3 to 5 seconds. Ergonomic design features Chain Brake for safety. Lightweight design.
  • Tensioning without tools: Allows you to adjust your chain quickly and easily so that you can maintain the perfect tension for the ideal cut with next to no maintenance
  • Automatic lubrication: Automatic oiling system provides continuous lubrication to the bar & chain from the oil tank. It keeps the chain lubricated for less friction to extend the life of your chain
  • Instant startup: Corded electric chainsaw gets to work immediately. Low noise: makes less noise than a gasoline chainsaw. No assembly required, chainsaw comes pre-assembled. UL Certified. Comes with...
Bestseller No. 8
PROYAMA 68CC 2-Cycle Top Handle Gas Powered Chainsaw 24 Inch 20 Inch Petrol Handheld Cordless Chain Saw for Tree Wood Cutting
  • Powerful Engine: 2-cycle 68 cc engine provides more power, perfect for cutting jobs around garden or far
  • Durable Chainsaw: The chainsaw will make tasks like tree pruning, clearing land, preparing firewood or cleaning up after a storm easier
  • Anti-Vibration System: It reduces vibration levels, for more comfortable use of chainsaw
  • One Year Warranty: Welcome to contact us by email for any questions, we'll reply within 24 hours
Bestseller No. 9
Husqvarna 120 Mark III Gas Chainsaw, 38-cc, 2-Cycle X-Torq Engine, 16 Inch Chainsaw with Automatic Oiler, For Wood Cutting and Tree Pruning
  • 16 INCH BAR: 120 Mark III Chainsaw with 3/8 Pitch, .050 Gauage is built for the homeowner who needs a lightweight and efficient cutting tool
  • POWERFUL AND EFFICIENT: 38-cc Husqvarna chainsaws with X-Torq engine delivers a great power and torque thanks to highly efficient combustion
  • INERTIA ACTIVATED CHAIN BRAKE: intertia activated chain brake for safety while operating
  • LOWVIB TECHNOLOGY: Dampeners between the engine and chassis significantly reduce vibrations so you can work more comfortably
  • SEPARATE CHOKE/STOP SWITCH CONTROLS: Stop switch automatically resets when the choke is pulled out to help prevent accidental flooding
Bestseller No. 10
2-cycle 63CC Chainsaw Saw Gas Powered 20" Chain Saws Cordless Petrol Saw Handheld Chainsaw for Cutting Wood Trees Branches (63ACG)
  • High Efficiency: Powerful 63CC stroke 3.5hp Gasoline Engine delivers strong power to the steel bar and low-kickback chain. Engine speed up to 8500 rpm, and it is wear-resistant and high-temperature...
  • Quickstart Technology: Anti-vibration and non-slip handle effectively relieve machine vibration, increased comfort and reduced discomfort caused by machine vibration. Equipped with high quality chain...
  • Easy To Use: Big rope wheel makes it easier to start the machine and equipped with automatic chain oiler keeps bar and chain lubricated extends the life of the chainsaw. Ensure that the user can...
  • Saving Fuel Consumption: Reinforced wear-resistant chain with good wear resistance. Incredible power, even medium and large jobs can be finished easily and efficiently, Air cleaning system for long...
  • High Safety Chainsaw: Provided with a safety device to keep it from being accidentally switched on. The ergonomic design paired makes this chainsaw balanced, maneuverable, and comfortable to operate.
Bestseller No. 11
Husqvarna 967108411 130 38cc 2 HP 2 Cycle 16 in. Gas Chainsaw
  • Husqvarna 130 16 inch chainsaw is easy to start and easy to handle, making it a valuable tool for a variety of home and garden tasks—recommended for use with bar lengths between 14 inches (min) and...
  • Effortless Start-Up: A fuel pump and combined choke/stop control allow for easier starting and reduce the risk of engine flooding, while the gas chainsaw 16 inch blade has an inertia-activated chain...
  • Superior Performance: Gas powered chainsaw delivers superior performance with an efficient 38-cc, 2-HP X-Torq engine that reduces emissions (up to 60%) and increases fuel efficiency (up to 20%)
  • Air Injection Technology: Chainsaws equipped with a centrifugal air cleaning system that expels larger dust and debris particles before they reach the air filter for improved engine life
  • Easy Handling: This cordless chainsaw features LowVib technology that uses dampeners to reduce vibrations and minimize operator fatigue for easier handling of recommended 14 to 16-inch chainsaw bars

Knowing how to spot a potentially dangerous tree in your yard or while out on a trek is an essential skill that can save loads of money and even lives! Look out for these signs throughout your property or favorite hiking trail to stay safe and comfortable while outdoors.

You may also like

Outdoors Magazine

Embracing the Great Outdoors is a compelling blog dedicated to celebrating the beauty and thrill of outdoor activities, weaving tales of awe-inspiring hiking trails, serene fishing spots, strategic hunting expeditions, and invigorating camping adventures to inspire and guide like-minded enthusiasts.

Edtior's Picks

Latest Articles

©2025 Outdoors Magazine. All Right Reserved.