Treestands are very popular with Wisconsin's Hunters

Treestands are very popular with Wisconsin hunters -- especially those who hunt with archery equipment. Stands help hunters see (or “sight”) game and decrease the chance their scent will spook prey.

Treestands can, however, be an accident waiting to happen if they're used carelessly or incorrectly.

One out of three hunters will fall from a tree stand sometime during his or her hunting lifetime.

Tim Lawhern
Hunter Education Administrator

Falls can be prevented. While we've used the term treestands to talk about these safety principles, they also apply to anytime you hunt off the ground. Follow these precautions to avoid accidents.

Check Your Stand

• Most importantly, and every time, tell someone when you'll be home and exactly where you'll be.
• Plan ahead. Some mishaps occur when hunters are hurrying to set up their stands on opening morning.
• Select a tree -- one large enough to support your weight -- before the season begins.
• Check permanent tree stands every year before hunting from them.
• Replace any worn or weak lumber that could break.
• Inspect portable stands for loose nuts and bolts each time the stand is used.
• Read, understand and follow the factory recommended practices and procedures when installing commercial stands.

Use A Safety Harness

• Use either a safety belt or harness every time you leave the ground to hunt or inspect your treestand.
• Make sure you use a short tether - the tether should be shorter than the platform you're standing on.
• Know what you should do if you slip while using a safety device. For example, have access to a cell phone (and in service), be within shouting range of a partner, and/or have an escape plan.

Tips

• Always, use a haul line to raise and lower your hunting equipment.
• Keep firearms unloaded and arrows in a covered quiver;
• Stay awake. If you find yourself becoming drowsy, its time to climb down/go home.

Read More About Treestand Safety!

"Take a Stand For Safety", Wisconsin Natural Resources Magazine, October 2009.

Contact Information

For more safety information, contact:

Tim Lawhern
(608) 266-1317