Hunters Should Be Careful When Using A Tree Stand

Hunters Should Be Careful When Using A Tree Stand

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Thousands of archers across the state cant wait for Sept.15, the opening day of Nebraskas 2008 archery deer hunting season and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission urges them to be very careful when they are using their tree stands and to have a safe hunting season.

Unfortunately, tree stand accidents are common and most are caused by carelessness that results in loss of balance or tree stand failure. A large number of deaths and serious falls occur while the hunter is ascending or descending the tree.

Accidents and falls can occur whenever the stand is being used, whether the hunter is installing, climbing into or out of the stand, or hunting from it.

It is important to learn how to properly use the stand. It is a good idea to practice hanging it in a tree and then practice getting in and out of it at low heights.

Commission Hunter Education Coordinator Mike Streeter says most hunters can avoid tree stand accidents just by thinking about what they are doing when using them.

Here is Streeters advice for avoiding tree stand accidents:

– Inspect the stand, steps and safety belt carefully before going into the woods. It is far better to take the time to carefully inspect the stand before leaving home than to find repairs are needed when trying to install it in a tree.

– Carefully inspect the stand for missing and/or broken fasteners, braces, frame, seat and platform and make the necessary replacements.

– Dont get in a hurry when hanging the stand. Place the stand in a spot that will make getting into and out of the stand and the tree easy in different weather conditions.

– Be sure to put the stand on the tree in the manner recommended by the manufacturer. Dont try to make it fit the tree.

– Think carefully about installing portable steps. Try to visualize what will happen if a step breaks while you are climbing into or out of the tree. Use only steps that are in perfect condition and install them as directed by the manufacturer.

– Always use a haul rope to get equipment into and out of the stand, never climb into the stand with equipment hanging from your body.

– Always wear a full-body harness from the time you are on the ground before climbing into the stand, until the time you are on the ground from climbing down from the stand.

– When climbing, use the three-point method, which means at least three parts of your body – two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand – are always in contact with the tree.

– Once in the stand, the first thing you should do is attach your harness to the tree. Taking off the belt is the last thing you do before climbing down.

– The most dangerous type of tree stand is one made from lumber and nails. Never use this type of stand.

– Remain calm when a deer approaches. Some hunters become so excited when they see a deer that they forget where they are and accidentally fall from the stand. Some hunters forget they are in a stand and try to walk toward the deer after they shoot. Taking a step off of a tree stand platform can result in injury, even if you are wearing a safety belt.

– After the shot, sit down and calm down. Wait at least 30 minutes if you are sure you have made a perfect shot. If your shot placement was not perfect, make yourself wait even longer.

Hunters should also be selective when choosing where to put their stand. Avoid leaning or decaying trees or those that have smooth surfaces.

Always tell someone at home where you will be hunting and when you plan to be back. Its also a good idea to take your cell phone with you when hunting. I know, a phone is the last thing you want with you when you are hunting, but turn it off and put it in your pocket or fanny pack. You never know when you might need it to report some type of emergency while in the woods. It may save your life or someone elses.

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