Tree Stand Safety Guidelines
Posted on March 21, 2025
A large portion of Mississippi’s population participates in some form of hunting, and this activity will always be inherently dangerous. The incorporation of higher-powered weapons and elevated tree stands pose even more dangerous possibilities. According to an online article from the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks organization, “Tree stand falls account for more than 60 percent of all hunting accidents in Mississippi.” This statistic highlights the importance of following all recommended safety precautions when hunting from a tree stand.
Safely using these stands requires the following pre-emptive safety precautions:
1. Follow all tree stand set-up instructions. Make sure you affix the tree stand to a straight and healthy tree.
2. Access your physical and mental state before climbing into a tree stand. Know your own physical strength and abilities. Make sure that you are alert, well rested and not under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any other substance that may alter your mental state.
3. Make sure that you let others know where you are hunting and when you plan to return home. If possible, hunt with another person.
Safely using a tree stand requires these precautions for entering and exiting the stand:
1. Wear an appropriate safety harness
2. Go slow and climb methodically while following the three points of contact rule.
3. DO Not climb with your weapon on your person. Use a haul line to pull up and lower your equipment.