Post by DocHolladay on Jul 18, 2006 0:06:35 GMT -6
I borrowed this from another site. Please read and take this very seriously.
Tree stand safety tips
By Doris A. Black
Hunting safety goes beyond the proper use of firearms. A safe hunter must know the correct way to use a tree stand. Statistics show that one-third of all hunters who use tree stands have fallen from them at one time or another. Most of the time a fall results in a broken bone or two, but there have been instances in which a hunter has died from a fall.
Most tree stand accidents occur when climbing up or down the tree or by improperly affixing the stand to the tree. To ensure that you don't become a statistic, always put safety first. Even though each situation and set-up will be different, here are some tips to beat the statistical odds:
• Most hunters know this, but it bears repeating: Always choose a live tree for placing a tree stand. Never use a dead or dying tree where the strength integrity has been compromised.
• Before the hunting season starts, check each stand for weakness or mechanical failure. Waiting until the day before the hunt to find out that repairs are in order can cost you valuable hunting time in an already short season.
• Wooden steps and permanent stands will deteriorate over the course of time due to exposure to the elements. Check each step and board for rot, making sure each will still hold your weight.
• Don't try climbing into the stand while carrying your bow or gun. Use a rope to hoist the unarmed weapon.
• As with any type of climbing, proper attire will make the journey easier and safer. For tree climbing, choose non-slip boots and don't exceed the height at which you are comfortable.
• If attaching steps, it's wise to invest in a good set of wraparound steps with flush ends. Avoid the cheap screw-in models.
• Allow ample time to get into position. Climb while gripping with both hands. Make sure both hands are secure before taking the next step.
• Always wear a safety harness when ascending or descending the tree. Using a harness when climbing can take time and be frustrating, but remember, this is when most falls occur. Continue to wear the harness once in position, pulling up any slack for optimum safety. Another benefit of safety harnesses is that they can allow the hunter to lean into a shot if necessary, while remaining firmly anchored to the tree. This is especially useful when deer are either directly below or just out of position range.
• Above all, use common sense and listen to your instincts. If you get the "feeling" that something is just not right, it probably isn't. Stop and correct the situation until that "feeling" has disappeared.
There are all types of commercial tree stands available: climbing stands that require a straight tree, non-climbing stands that attach by rope or chain, ladder stands, tripod stands, etc. Every tree-stand hunter has his preference, but no matter what type of stand you use, make sure it's comfortable and quiet. During that long waiting game when there are no deer in site, nothing is worse than passing the time with a butt that's gone numb in the first 15 minutes and a seat that creaks and moans every time you breathe.
A day in the woods can be deemed successful, with or without getting off a shot, if you arrive home safely, able to return another day.LETS ALL HAVE A GREAT SEASON & A SAFE ONE
Tree stand safety tips
By Doris A. Black
Hunting safety goes beyond the proper use of firearms. A safe hunter must know the correct way to use a tree stand. Statistics show that one-third of all hunters who use tree stands have fallen from them at one time or another. Most of the time a fall results in a broken bone or two, but there have been instances in which a hunter has died from a fall.
Most tree stand accidents occur when climbing up or down the tree or by improperly affixing the stand to the tree. To ensure that you don't become a statistic, always put safety first. Even though each situation and set-up will be different, here are some tips to beat the statistical odds:
• Most hunters know this, but it bears repeating: Always choose a live tree for placing a tree stand. Never use a dead or dying tree where the strength integrity has been compromised.
• Before the hunting season starts, check each stand for weakness or mechanical failure. Waiting until the day before the hunt to find out that repairs are in order can cost you valuable hunting time in an already short season.
• Wooden steps and permanent stands will deteriorate over the course of time due to exposure to the elements. Check each step and board for rot, making sure each will still hold your weight.
• Don't try climbing into the stand while carrying your bow or gun. Use a rope to hoist the unarmed weapon.
• As with any type of climbing, proper attire will make the journey easier and safer. For tree climbing, choose non-slip boots and don't exceed the height at which you are comfortable.
• If attaching steps, it's wise to invest in a good set of wraparound steps with flush ends. Avoid the cheap screw-in models.
• Allow ample time to get into position. Climb while gripping with both hands. Make sure both hands are secure before taking the next step.
• Always wear a safety harness when ascending or descending the tree. Using a harness when climbing can take time and be frustrating, but remember, this is when most falls occur. Continue to wear the harness once in position, pulling up any slack for optimum safety. Another benefit of safety harnesses is that they can allow the hunter to lean into a shot if necessary, while remaining firmly anchored to the tree. This is especially useful when deer are either directly below or just out of position range.
• Above all, use common sense and listen to your instincts. If you get the "feeling" that something is just not right, it probably isn't. Stop and correct the situation until that "feeling" has disappeared.
There are all types of commercial tree stands available: climbing stands that require a straight tree, non-climbing stands that attach by rope or chain, ladder stands, tripod stands, etc. Every tree-stand hunter has his preference, but no matter what type of stand you use, make sure it's comfortable and quiet. During that long waiting game when there are no deer in site, nothing is worse than passing the time with a butt that's gone numb in the first 15 minutes and a seat that creaks and moans every time you breathe.
A day in the woods can be deemed successful, with or without getting off a shot, if you arrive home safely, able to return another day.LETS ALL HAVE A GREAT SEASON & A SAFE ONE
