UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Deer hunting from tree stands can be more productive, but using them can be dangerous, according to a hunting safety expert in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. Earle Robbins, Penn State Cooperative Extension Agent in Tioga County, says that nationwide, about 10 hunters every year are killed in falls from tree stands, while many others suffer temporary or permanent injury.

"Human error is the main reason for tree stand accidents," says Robbins. "People climb into trees or stands when conditions are wet, icy or windy. They also fall asleep and fall out of the tree or become excited when a deer appears and take one step too far."

Hunters climb existing limbs or use ladders, steps or commercial climbers to reach perches 10 to 15 feet off the forest floor, explains Robbins.

"Tree stands have been very popular with hunters in archery season," he says, "and now more hunters are using them during rifle season."

Robbins recommends following these tree stand safety tips:

--Do not use weathered, homemade tree stands. "These stands often deteriorate quickly and often are unsafe even when newly installed," Robbins says.

--Wear a full body harness. These are attached to the tree and the hunter. If the stand breaks or slips, the hunter remains in position. Hunter safety instructors were told until recently that a single strap around the chest was sufficient. Unfortunately, there have been instances where bowhunters have suffocated when these straps constricted after the hunter fell from the tree.

--Leave as little slack as possible in the line/belt connecting the hunter to the tree. This offers the hunter the possibility of climbing back into the stand if he or she falls out.

--Always unload firearms before pulling them up into (or lowering them from) the tree stand.

--Choose a healthy tree with branches that can support the additional weight. "Make sure the tree has no dead branches or fungal growths near the tree or on the trunk," he says. "Mushrooms or fungus on trees can be a sign of ill health."

--When climbing up or down, always ensure that your hands and feet are secure at three points before moving the fourth point.

-- Follow manufacturer's directions when using commercial tree stands.

Robbins warns hunters that they cannot place a tree stand in any tree of their choice. "There is a $100 fine plus damage costs for placing a tree stand on public or private property without permission," he says.

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EDITORS: Contact Earle Robbins at the Tioga County Cooperative Extension office, (570) 724-9120.

Contact:

Jeff Mulhollem jjm29@psu.edu 814-863-2719 814-865-1068 fax