Tree Stand Hunting Safety

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Tree stand safety is a growing concern, said Thomas Baumeister, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Hunter Education coordinator.

"Tree stands have been popular with some hunters in archery season and now more hunters are using them during rifle season in Montana," Baumeister said. "But, as with every aspect of hunting, safety must always come first."

Montana’s antelope archery season runs Sept. 6-Oct. 11 and the deer and elk archery season is Sept. 6-Oct. 19.

"I’ve been tracking hunting accidents related to tree stands nationwide and they are definitely on the rise," Baumeister said.   In an overwhelming majority of the cases, victims were not wearing a proper fall restraint system.

The proper use of tree stands and fall-restraint equipment will help prevent injury or even death from such falls. Here are some important safety precautions when using tree stands:

?          u se a fall-restraint system, preferably a full-body harness, any time your feet leave the ground.   This includes climbing and descending the tree.

?          m ake sure there is no slack in the fall-restraint tether when in a sitting position.

?          c hoose a harness that will keep you upright and will not restrict your breathing.

?          a void permanent stands; they weaken with age, damage trees and are eyesores.

?          choose a tree stand commercially built to industry standards.

?          read and follow manufacturer’s guidelines.  

?          practice with the stand before hunting from it.

?          inspect all stands and equipment regularly.  

?          maintain three points of contact with the climbing system or ladder at all times while climbing.

?          use a haul line to pull up gear.  

?          if hunting with firearms, make sure they are unloaded and the muzzle is covered.  

?          never attach the line near the trigger or trigger guard.

?          use three people to set-up and take down a ladder type tree stand.

hunt with a plan and a buddy who knows the plan and can help you if you don’t return in a set time.