By MATT MAURY

This past winter generated several strong winds - one of the principal causes of damage to trees each year. As everyone knows, falling limbs and toppled trees are a hazard to all below.

The question is, what can homeowners do to minimize the risk of problems with trees around their homes?

For many, the "solution" that appears to be the quickest and easiest is to top the tree. But while that may be the case, topping a tree is not necessarily the best course of action.

Topping is defined as the complete removal of the top of an evergreen or the extensive cutting back of the branches on a leaf-bearing tree. It is an unnatural solution that leaves the tree looking ugly. And, while the practice is assumed to make a tree safer, it usually causes the tree to become more of a hazard than it was originally.

The removal of a tree's top will limit its ability to feed itself. The leaves and needles capture the sunlight and supply some of the nutrients necessary to keep the root system alive. When this feeding system is cut back or eliminated, parts of the root system will die, thus reducing the stability of the tree. When a tree is topped, the cuts that are made on the limbs and trunk are left open to bacteria, fungus and insects. Decay usually begins, first in the limbs, then traveling down into the trunk. Trees with interior decay may not show it until the tree is so weakened that it falls over, or it suddenly dies.

Since topping is not a recommended solution, homeowners should consider either removing the problem trees or selectively thinning the branches. These options can be examined with a professional arborist who can help evaluate the tradeoffs in safety, utility, beauty and cost.

When trees do have to be removed, it can be an extremely hazardous undertaking. The possibility of damage to property, not to mention life and limb, must be considered. The safe way is often a more costly way. Homeowners should not cut corners here. Be sure to find a contractor who will supply a current certificate of liability insurance before any work is begun.

For homeowners who have the unfortunate experience of having damage done to structures or plantings by falling limbs or trees, it is suggested that homeowners' insurance policies be checked. Often the coverage will include expenses for repairs, over the policy's deductible amount.

Matt Maury is president of the Home Owners Club in Seattle. In the months ahead, this column will help homeowners better understand the complexities of owning and maintaining their residences.