North Carolina Wildlife Commission Reminds All Hunters to Be Safe When Using Treestands
The most popular strategy for hunting deer in the southeast is the use of a treestand and the leading cause of injuries to hunters is falls out of treestands.
“Always, always wear a fall arrest system,” said Capt. Chris Huebner, hunter afety coordinator for the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. “We recommend a full harness that is attached and in use before you leave the ground. That is one safety measure that wildlife officers stress to hunters.”
There have been two serious tree-stand accidents in the state already, resulting in a fatality and a broken back. Both could have been prevented if a fall-arrest system had been used, investigators said.
Don’t shortcut on safety while hunting even a fall from 12 feet or so can have devastating effects or even be fatal. This past weekend in preparation for the upcoming season we checked and made adjustments to treestands we had up tightening straps and even replacing a few that were worn. Throughout the season we’ll check these prior to climbing into them to make sure they are still safe. A few moments of safety check prior to climbing can save you from having an accident.
There are several other important precautions to take while using a tree stand:
• Check all bolts, belts, chains and attachment cords before use, especially if the tree stand has been in place for any length of time
• Never carry anything as you climb - use a rope to raise and lower an unloaded gun or other equipment once you are safely seated in the tree stand
• Have an emergency signal (cell phone, whistle or flare) and let someone else know where you plan to hunt and when you plan to return
“You need to know how your tree stand works and practice using it beforehand at low heights,” Huebner said. “Know the manufacturer’s recommendations and follow their guidelines for installation and use.”
Haul ropes is one thing I forgot to bring with me on Saturday to put up for using the stand. Like they recommend I like to have both hands free when climbing. A product I haven’t used but have heard some great things about is the “Gunslinger” that will also help you get your unloaded gun safely into your stand and keep it there while you hunt. So check them out they have a lot of information on their site as well as a great outdoor blog “Hunt Smart Think Safety”
Hunting is a very safe sport and by taking a few extra steps you can lower your risk of injury even more. Be Safe and enjoy the great outdoors.
I’m so glad so many people are talking about tree stand safety. I’ve already seen a few stories about people in Michigan who died after they fell from their stands. Safety gear is so important.
Thanks also for mentioning the Gunslinger and the Hunt Smart, Think Safety Blog. I appreciate it.
Comment by Kristine Shreve — October 23, 2007 @ 9:28 am
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