Treestand falls account for more than 60 percent of all hunting accidents in Mississippi. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks urges everyone hunting from an elevated stand to consider these safety precautions:
1. Wear a Safety Harness, also known as a fall arrest system, when you are in a treestand, as well as when climbing into or out of a treestand.
2. Use a Haul Line to pull up your gear and unloaded firearm or bow to your treestand. Never climb with anything in your hands or on your back. Before descending, lower your equipment on the opposite side of the tree.
3. Select the Proper Tree for use with your treestand. Select a live, straight tree that fits within the size limits recommended in your treestand’s instructions.
4. Hunt with a Plan, and if possible, with a buddy. Let others know your exact hunting location, when you plan to return, and who you are hunting with.
5. Carry an Emergency Signal Device such as a cell phone or whistle on your person at all times and within reach.
6. Know Your Physical Limitations and do not take chances. If you start thinking about how high you are, do not go any higher.
7. Make Slow Movements when climbing, no more than 10-12 inches at a time.
8. Follow the 3-Point Rule, or having three points of contact to the steps or ladder before moving. This could be two arms and one leg holding and stepping on the ladder or one arm and two legs in contact with the ladder before moving.
9. Check Step Security before placing your weight on it.
Law Enforcement