Use Treestands Safely

Photo by Wisconsin DNR

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The DNR reminds hunters to use treestands safely and encourages hunters to use a full-body harness or a fall-arrest system.

The department says one-quarter of bowhunters have experienced a fall or near fall from an elevated stand. However, less than half of Wisconsin deer hunters use a safety harness every time they climb.

Hunters should include harnesses in their routine if they plan to hunt above the ground regardless of hunting with a ladder stand, a tower stand or a hang-on stand, according to the DNR. Risky climbing behavior can catch up with hunters the longer they hunt, the department warns.

The DNR says hunters should also follow the basic rules of treestand safety:

Connect your harness to your tether line and keep your tether line short.
Always have three points of contact while climbing into and out of the treestand: Two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand at all times.
Always use a haul line to raise and lower your unloaded firearm or bow into and out of the stand. You can also use a separate haul line for other things, like a heavy backpack.
Use a lifeline when climbing up and down. The lifeline keeps you connected from the time you leave the ground to when you get back down.
Be sure to let someone know where you’ll be hunting and when you expect to return.
Carry a cell phone to call for help if you are injured after a fall.

The DNR adds hunters should use situational awareness:

Always select a tree that is substantial enough to support your weight.
Check your equipment before use, making certain lines are intact, your harness fits and is absent of snags and tears that could jeopardize the functionality.
Also, be sure to inspect your stand to ensure it does not have any missing components or broken features.

See the Treestand Manufacturers Association Safety Course: https://www.huntercourse.com/treestandsafety/

See the DNR Treestand Safety webpage: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/education/OutdoorSkills/TreestandSafety

Use Treestands Safely

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