A thorough inspection of mature trees by a licensed arborist should be done annually.  The main focus of this inspection is to determine the safety of surrounding life and property.  Mature trees can be the most beautiful part of a landscape and at the same time can be the most hazardous due to weak limbs or trunks.  When properly installed, cables and braces can help to extend the life of mature trees by stabilizing them during high winds and torrential rains.