Indianapolis – As deer season kicks off across the Hoosier State, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is issuing a timely reminder to hunters: tree‑stand safety saves lives. The agency estimates that over 300,000 residents will participate in some form of deer hunting through Jan. 31, 2027, and past data show that falls from elevated platforms are the leading cause of hunting‑related injuries.

Key safety steps from the DNR

Conservation officers stress a simple checklist before heading into the woods:

• Inspect tree stands and all related hardware for cracks, wear, loose bolts or any other damage.
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions; use equipment designed specifically for hunting.
• Practice setting up and taking down a stand at ground level before climbing.

Once in the field, the DNR recommends the following practices to keep hunters secure:

• Always wear a full‑body safety harness when using a tree stand.
• Attach the harness to a sturdy branch before leaving the ground and stay connected until safely back on the ground.
• Use a safety rope and maintain three points of contact while climbing.
• Wear boots with non‑slip soles.
• Employ a haul line to raise and lower firearms, bows and other gear.
• Ensure firearms are unloaded, the action is open and the safety is engaged before attaching them to a haul line.

Additional precautions for a safe hunt

The DNR also encourages hunters to carry a cellphone and a flashlight, develop a clear hunting plan and let someone know where they will be and when they expect to return. When using firearms, hunters should positively identify their target before pulling the trigger and be aware of what lies beyond the intended target.

These guidelines are part of the agency’s broader effort to reduce preventable injuries and keep families safe during a beloved Indiana tradition. By following the safety measures, hunters protect not only themselves but also the loved ones who depend on them.

Where to find more information

Detailed hunting‑season dates, safety resources and additional guidance are available on the Indiana DNR website. Conservation officers urge anyone planning to hunt this season to review the materials and make safety a top priority.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.