If you are heading out for opening day, there is a good chance that you will be hunting from an elevated position in a tree stand. Although the most common stands are commercially produced ladder, climbing or hook-on stands, plenty of hunters still use homemade designs.

No matter how you get off the ground, doing so adds an element of risk to your hunt.

There are several reasons why hunting from a stand is one of the most popular methods among whitetail hunters. The elevated position provides a better view of the surrounding area, makes hiding from weary dead easier, and offers the opportunity to shoot past ground cover.

When done right, it can make the difference between filling a tag and going home empty-handed.

However any time you leave the ground, there is an inherent risk of falling. Even a fall from under 20 feet can cause serious injury. According to Wisconsin DNR, approximately 13% of firearms hunters will experience a fall or near fall this season, which increases to approximately 28% for archery hunters. Over 80% of these falls will result in serious injuries with hospitalization. Not only will a fall ruin this season, but it could also alter your ability to hunt again.

CHOOSING A TREE

The first step in stand safety is selecting the right tree. A live tree large enough to support your weight is an obvious requirement. This tree also needs to meet the size requirements for your specific stand. Yes each stand does have a minimum and maximum size for proper use.

The type of bark is also essential. A species with a rough but solid bark makes it easier to maintain a slip-free grip, while those with a smooth or loose bark increase the chance of failure under the added weight of a hunter. Climbers require a reasonably straight trunk, although ladders and homemade stands can be safely attached to a less-than-perfect trunk.

SAFETY INSPECTION

Inspect your tree stand every time you use it. Look for loose or worn straps, broken steps, etc. If you are unsure whether the stand is safe, do not use it until everything is fixed or replaced.

TIE OFF

Most falls occur when climbing or transitioning from ladder to platform. This is why it is important to wear a harness not only every time but from the minute you leave the ground. Although any harness is better than none, it is recommended that you use one with deployable foot loops.

If you do fall, these loops can be dropped and allow you to take your body weight off the harness straps, which can prevent circulation to the lower extremities from being interrupted.

As you climb, make sure you always have three points of contact with the stand. This is almost impossible to do if you are climbing with a firearm or gear, so use a drop line to pull these items up once you are safely on the platform. Of course, your firearm should be unloaded as you pull it up or lower it to the ground later.

HAVE A PLAN

No one plans on falling, but what will you do if it does happen? Does anyone know where you are hunting? Do you have a way to contact help? Do you know how to direct first responders to your location?

Answering these questions and having a plan prior to falling will make it much easier than figuring it out when hanging by a harness or laying on the ground injured.

While hunting may be a great time to unplug, having a cellphone available makes summoning help a lot easier. Not only can you call first responders or friends, but you can also share your location.

This is a lot more efficient than help walking the woods, calling your name and hoping you hear them.

Follow these simple rules and have a safe and, hopefully, productive opening day.

Good luck, good hunting.