Tree stand safety tips for hunters
As hunting season approaches, Vermont Fish & Wildlife urges hunters to prioritize safety when using tree stands. While tree stands can improve visibility and keep hunters out of sight from deer, they also present significant safety risks if not used properly. Here are some essential safety tips to ensure a safe and successful hunting experience:
According to Nicole Meier, Hunter Education Program Coordinator at Vermont Fish & Wildlife, “Falls from tree stands are a leading cause of death and serious injury among hunters, but these accidents are preventable by consistently using full-body harnesses and staying connected to the tree.”
- Select a healthy, straight tree, avoiding ash trees that may be weakened by the emerald ash borer infestation.
- Use only certified tree stands approved by the Treestand Manufacturers Association (TMA) and inspect them for wear and tear before each use.
- Be aware of rules on public and private land. Using nails or building permanent structures is illegal on state lands. Always get landowner permission on private land.
- Wear a full-body safety harness at all times, especially when climbing, as most falls occur while ascending or descending the tree.
- Limit your height. The higher you go, the smaller the deer’s vital zone becomes, and the risk of serious injury increases.
- Use a haul line to raise and lower gear, ensuring firearms are unloaded.
- Familiarize yourself with your gear before heading out. Opening day is not the time to test equipment for the first time.
- Avoid long-term placement of stands, as tree growth and weather exposure can compromise stability and safety over time.
For more information on tree stand safety, visit tmastands.com/safety.
