With the youth and early antlerless deer seasons underway, and the Nov. 7 firearms opener on the horizon, please take a moment to refresh yourself and your hunting partners on staying safe while using a tree stand.
Falls from tree stands are the leading cause of injury among hunters, and many can be avoided.
A few tips:
• Make sure the stand is in good working order before using it
• Climb in and out slowly, focusing on each step
• Inspect your safety harness thoroughly, and use it when you’re in the stand, as well as when you’re climbing in and out
• Always maintain three points of contact with the steps or ladder
mndnr.gov/safety/treestand/index.html