Using tree stands entails safety precautions to avoid accidents. In order to stay safe, always wear a safety harness, wear non-slip boots, carefully read manufacturer’s instructions and warnings, never exceed the tree stand's weight limit, and always check the tree stand before every use. In addition, use climbing aids and ropes, do not forget to bring emergency signal devices and a survival pack, properly choose a good tree where you can install your tree stand, check the weather, let a trusted person know your whereabouts, and consider your physical condition so as to avoid unwanted incidents.
Many accidents involving hunters are attributed to tree stands every year. To avoid hurting yourself, here are some of the most important safety precautions you need to consider when using tree stands:
Always wear a safety harness
It is advisable to always wear a full body harness that meets Treestand Manufacturers Association (TMA) standards in order to minimize risk of injuries, even death, when going up and down the tree stand and while on the tree stand. Follow the appropriate way to wear the harness and make sure belts and straps are properly locked. It would also be better if you get a feel for how the harness works before actual usage for better control when using the harness on the tree stand.
Wear non-slip boots
To help avoid slipping when it rains or when it snows, it is also recommended to wear non slip boots when using your tree stand.
Carefully read manufacturer’s instructions and warnings
Different types of tree or deer stands have different instructions and warnings. Carefully read and understand all the guidelines for installation, as well as usage, in order to avoid accidents. Know the importance of the accessories that come with your tree stand and use it as instructed. Keep the user’s manual for future use, especially when someone borrows your stand or when you plan to sell it.
Never exceed tree stand's weight limit
Another cause of tree stand accidents is when the weight limit is exceeded. It is always wise to know and monitor your weight and your load’s weight in relation to the weight limit of your tree stand to avoid breaking it.
Always check the tree stand before every use
It is always a prerequisite to check on your tree stand before every use. Some hunters only check on their tree stands when something does not feel right or when the tree strand has been installed on a tree for quite a long time. This should not be the case. If you want to keep yourself safe, always check the condition of your tree stand before using it. Check on possible cracks and other damages. Never risk using it when something is wrong.
Use climbing aids and ropes
Use climbing aids, such as a climbing belt. Some may come with your tree stand or you can buy one separately at specialty shops to help you safely ascend and descend the tree stand. Never carry anything with your hands or back to avoid accidents. Instead, use ropes or haul lines to bring your equipment up and down the tree stand.
Do not forget to bring emergency signal devices and a survival pack
You will never know what you will run into while up on the tree stand, so make sure you bring signal devices with you in case of emergencies. Bring a whistle, a signal flare, a flash light, a mobile phone, or a walkie-talkie to ask for help. Take with you a handy survival kit with candies, water, and a first aid kit.
Properly choose a good tree where you can install your tree stand
A sturdy tree stand is not enough to keep you safe. Make sure you choose a good tree where you can install your tree stand. Find a tree that is alive, standing straight, and fits the description in your tree stand user instructions to ensure a stable support.
Check the weather
Another safety measure that you need to consider before going hunting is to check the weather. Check the sky and watch out for signs of rain and other weather conditions that may hinder your hunting and could increase the risk of accident.
Let a trusted person know your whereabouts
Finally, always let a trusted person know you are going hunting. Mention where you will exactly go, how long you are planning to stay out, and who you will be with. If possible, go hunting with a friend so you can assist each other in case things go wrong.
Consider your physical condition
Never climb a tree stand or even think about going hunting when you are not physically in condition to do so. Forget about hunting when you are drunk or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Make sure you have taken enough rest, sleep, and meals to make sure you can climb and stay up in the tree stand in great condition and with proper attention.
Using a tree stand can make hunting, especially deer hunting, a lot easier. However, safety must always be considered first. As long as you take precautionary measures, accidents can be avoided.In any hobby, safety always has to come first. Learn the most important precautionary measures when using tree stands to make hunting less dangerous and more successful.
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