Newton County Tree Stand Fall Prompts Hunting Safety Reminder

Posted on October 31, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI

Hunters are reminded to stay safe while using tree stands. Over the weekend, an Illinois man broke eight bones in his neck and back when he fell from a tree stand while deer hunting in Newton County, according to Indiana Conservation Officers.

They say you can help prevent falls by following a few basic safety precautions. Only use equipment that’s been approved by the Treestand Manufacturers Association, rather than a homemade platform. Use a full-body harness system, rather than a single-strap or chest harness. Before using a tree stand, read the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions, and make sure it’s in working order.

Conservation Officers say falls from elevated platforms are the top cause of hunting accidents in Indiana.

Deer Hunters Urged to Stay Safe

Posted on November 12, 2016
Author Mary Perren, WKVI

Today marks the opening of firearms season for deer hunters. All hunters are reminded to always treat their weapon as though it is loaded and always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to take a shot to avoid an unwanted discharge if you trip. Also be absolutely sure of your target before taking a shot.

That’s why it’s imperative for hunters and anyone who might happen to be in the woods during firearms season to prominently wear hunter orange that is visible from all directions. Ground blinds should be marked with hunter orange as well.

If you hunt from a tree stand, check it carefully before getting into it, and use a safety harness to protect yourself in case of a fall.

Always tell someone where you will be hunting and when you plan to return, and take a charged cell phone with you in case you need to call for help.

Hunters should also check the weather before heading out and dress for the worst possible conditions. Experts advise dressing in layers and always bringing rain gear.

Deer firearm season continues through Nov. 27.  All hunters, including those using archery equipment, must meet hunter orange requirements during firearms, muzzleloader (Dec. 3-18) and special antlerless firearm (Dec. 26- Jan. 1, 2017) seasons.

Hunting Season Brings Awareness to Safety

Published: October 2, 2014

By: Mitch Columbe, WKVI

Deer hunting season is under way. Hunters who use tree stands need to be aware of some safety tips. Over the last five years, 182 hunting accident reports have been filed by the DNR with 100 of those involving falls from a tree stand.

Before the hunt, it is important to know your equipment. Check your stand as well as straps and chains to make sure they are working properly. Make sure you select a healthy, straight tree that is the right size for your stand. Avoid using climbing stands on smooth barked trees. During the hunt make sure you are harnessed to the tree as soon as you begin to climb up to the stand. Always raise and lower your firearm, bow or other equipment with a haul line. Make sure firearms are unloaded before attaching to a haul line. Don’t attach the haul line near the trigger or the trigger guard.

If you happen to fall, stay calm. Be prepared ahead of time to have emergency equipment such as a knife, cell phone, flashlight or whistle on you. Practice the three R’s: recover, relief and rescue. Attempt to recover and return to your stand. If that is not possible, exercise your legs by pushing against the tree, using another form of motion or your suspension relief device until help arrives.