INDIANAPOLIS — More than 300,000 people are expected to partake in some form of deer hunting in the Hoosier State this season.
With the deer reduction zone hunting season and archery deer season already underway, Indiana Conservation Officers are reminding hunters to stay safe.
When accidents and injuries do occur, the most common are reported from tree stands and other elevated platforms.
To avoid these common injuries and keep others safe, here's what officials want you to remember:
Before hunting:
- Read and understand the tree stand manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check tree stands and equipment for wear; fatigue; and cracks or loose nuts and bolts, paying particularly close attention to parts made of material other than metal.
- Pack and plan to use equipment specifically designed for hunting.
- Practice trees stand use and setup at ground level.
- Learn how to properly wear your full-body safety harness.
While hunting:
- Wear your full-body safety harness.
- Use boots with nonslip soles.
- Use a tree stand safety rope.
- Make sure to attach your harness to the tree before leaving the ground, and that it remains attached to the tree until you return to the ground.
- Maintain three points of contact during ascent and descent.
- Use a haul line to raise and lower firearms, bows and other hunting gear.
- Make sure firearms are unloaded, action is open, and safety is on before attaching them to the haul line.
When hunting in any capacity, remember these general tips to avoid any emergencies:
- Carry a cellphone and flashlight.
- Make a plan before you hunt.
- Tell someone your plan, including where you will be hunting and when you plan to return.
- Stick to your plan.
- Identify game before pointing a firearm.
- Know your target and what is beyond it.
The Indiana DNR also offers hunter education classes to help new and inexperienced hunters learn about general safety, regulations, survival skills and more.
For more information on how to safely hunt, click here.
