RALEIGH, N.C. (Nov. 22) - Three hunting deaths last season and two fatalities so far this season in North Carolina resulted from tree-stand related accidents - and could have been avoided.
There are precautions hunters should always take when deer hunting from a tree stand, according to Capt. Chris Huebner, hunting safety coordinator with N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.
"Always wear a full body harness, which is also known as a fall arrest system," he said. "Always use a rope to raise and lower a bow, an unloaded gun or other equipment, once you are safely positioned in the tree stand. Always know how the tree stand works and practice using it at low heights before you go hunting."
If the tree stand has been in place for any length of time, check all belts, chains and attachment cords before using it, Capt. Huebner said.
Then there are the things you should never do when hunting from a tree stand.
"Never climb with a firearm or bow," he said. "Don't select a decaying, leaning or slippery-bark tree for your tree stand. You might want to avoid using a tree stand in rain, snow or icy conditions. We recommend not using homemade tree stands, especially anything of wood-and-nail construction."
Completion of a Hunter Education Course, offered free throughout the state, is required for first-time buyers of a hunting license in North Carolina. For Hunter Education Course schedules, game regulations and additional hunting safety information, visit
www.ncwildlife.org or call (919) 707-0031.