I know this sounds crazy but trees are sessile and can’t move without outside intervention, ents, dryads, nymphs and other mythical tree beings excluded. If the tree might fall on something that can be moved then move that thing. This applies to objects like benches, picnic tables, elaborate outdoor sculptures or other moveable elements. If the tree is a risk because humans frequently interact with it, put up a fence or signs to keep people away from the tree. It’s easier and more cost-effective to prevent accidents by removing “targets” from a risk area or by keeping accident prone humans away from a risky area rather than, say, removing a mature tree. This dovetails nicely with the next point which is…

3) An ounce of prevention is worth a million billion trillion chainsaws.

As it turns out, because trees can’t move they don’t cause their own accidents. Most accidents are caused by improper tree care, bad site selection, improper planting or accidental damage. Weed-whacking or mowing too close to a tree can injure the cambium and cause tree failure. Burying the root crown in mulch or planting a tree too deeply can kill a tree. Letting grass grow over a tree’s roots can cause problems with root failure too, as can covering the roots with concrete or asphalt. Improper pruning can introduce structural weaknesses or invite fungal colonization.The best way to prevent tree failure is to take care of your tree properly. If you don’t know how to care for a specific tree Google is often a good friend and barring that, seek an expert opinion. We’re not telling you this to shame you into tree-caring compliance; it’s in your best interest as a homeowner to avoid paying for expensive, tree-removal services, fines for killing a large tree, or legal settlements due to tree-fall property damage.