52 Nebraskaland • November 2020
Most hunters think that an accident won't happen to
them, but anyone who has fallen from a tree stand thought
the same thing. Those who have had the misfortune say that
it happened so fast they had no time to react. At the end of
the day, returning home safely should be every tree-stand
hunter's top priority.
Falls account for the vast majority of injuries and deaths
that involve tree stands. Although modern tree stands are
made better than ever before, accidents remain possibilities.
Keep yourself, your family and friends safe this deer season
by following a few simple guidelines.
1. Inspect all equipment before the season. Check all
welds, nuts, bolts, cables and straps to ensure everything is
in good working condition.
2. Most falls happen when climbing up or down the stand.
Every time you leave the ground, use a life line and full-body
harness. Installing a life line takes only minutes, and it can
save lives. Always attach yourself to a tether at the top of the
stand if not using a life line.
3. Always have three points of contact when climbing up
or down a stand: two hands and foot or two feet and one
hand.
4. Clear all debris at the bottom of the tree. Taking this
precaution will provide a safe base for the bottom of a ladder
stand and minimize injuries if a fall should occur.
5. Know your personal limitations. If you are tired or, if
weather conditions make climbing a tree stand unpredictable,
hunt from the ground.
6. Pull any gear up to you with a rope or haul line.
Predetermine the length you need to safely pull a bow or rifle
up to you once you're tethered to the tree.
7. Keep a light easily accessible, whether it's a cap light or
headlamp, to quickly illuminate your way when needed.
8. Know and practice the 3 R's: recover, relief and rescue.
At a safe distance close to the ground, practice and attempt
to recover and return to a stand by pushing off the tree or
swinging back to the stand. Know how to use the suspension
relief device on full-body harnesses.
9. Leave a hunt plan with a spouse or friend. Hunt plans let
family or friends know where you're hunting and when you
plan to return. Make a map of the area and mark where your
stand is, which will make it easier for others to find you in
case of an emergency.
10. Keep a cellphone in a pocket close to your body, safely
secured and easily accessible if a fall occurs.
11. Finally, don't take unnecessary chances and
use common sense. If something doesn't feel right,
don't do it.
MAKE SAFETY A PRIORITY EVERY DEER SEASON
By Julie Geiser
MIXED BAG
PHOTO
BY
JEFF
KURRUS
