Tree stands are a continued favorite piece of equipment for hunters as they search for ways to remain undetected by game. However, tree stands also are the leading cause of hunting incidents according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). Fifty-two percent of the hunting incidents over the past ten years, and forty-one percent of hunting-related fatalities, were tree stand use related.

“Hunters must be intimately familiar with how to put up, take down and properly climb into a tree stand,” says WRD State Hunter Safety Coordinator Capt. James Bell. “We encourage ALL hunters to practice climbing into and out of their stand several times prior to the opening of the hunting season.”

There are many different types of tree stands, climbing and non-climbing portable stands, portable ladder stands, permanent stands and others. Each type requires the user to be familiar with their variations to ensure safety. People who use tree stands should thoroughly review the proper way to set up the stand and make sure that all parts are stable and in good working order. Following are some tips:

·When using a non-climbing portable or ladder stand, be sure to securely fasten the stand to the tree and install ladders or steps according to the manufacturer’s directions.

·Use a safety belt or harness to secure yourself to the tree – not to the tree stand. In the event that the tree stand breaks or collapses, the harness will keep you from falling to the ground. Hunters should have a plan on how to get down from the tree should the tree stand fail and leave them hanging from their harness. Make sure the harness is attached to the waist, allowing for 10 – 12 inches of slack between the tree and yourself. A full body harness is recommended over a simple harness or safety line.

·Use an equipment haul line to pull your gun or bow into or out of the stand. Make sure that the firearms or bow is unloaded before pulling it up.

·Be careful not to fall asleep. Be aware of medications that cause drowsiness and avoid taking them before hunting.

·Never use alcohol or drugs before or while you hunt as it is against the law.

·Always tell someone where you will be hunting and what time you expect to return.

For more information on tree stand or other hunting-related safety, contact the nearest WRD Law Enforcement Office, go to www.gohuntgeorgia.com or call (770) 761-3010.