(State) The Iowa DNR is reminding hunters to take extra safety precautions when hunting from a tree stand.
Incidents arise each year during bow season. Bryan Hayes with the Iowa DNR says the first safety tip is to wear a full body harness. “This is going to restrain you and prevent a fall, so wear those harnesses. If you purchased a commercial tree stand almost all of them come with a harness. If not, they sell them so get those full body harnesses and wear them. That’ll keep you attached to the tree.”
Three points of contact should be maintained when climbing to get to your stand. “Either two feet and a hand or two hands and one foot as you climb. Have three points of contact.”
Another suggestion is to check your stand before using it. “If you’re heading to a stand that was left out in the timber from last year you need to really check those straps, buckles, and climbing steps. We recommend that stands not be left out and be hung up new every year.”
Hayes says to use a haul line to raise and lower your equipment.
