INDIANA—More than 300,000 people are expected to participate in some form of deer hunting in Indiana during the various deer hunting seasons that run through Jan. 31, 2025, and the overwhelming majority will do so safely.
When injuries occur, the most common are accidents involving hunting from tree stands and elevated platforms. To avoid such injuries, hunters should follow the safety tips listed below when hunting from an elevated position.
Before the hunt:
- Read and understand the tree stand manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check tree stands and equipment for wear, fatigue, 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 tree stand use and setup at ground level.
- Learn how to wear your full-body safety harness properly.
During the hunt:
- 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 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.
- Before attaching firearms to the haul line, make sure they are unloaded, the action is open, and the safety is on.
When doing any hunting, remember to do the following to stay safe:
- Carry a cell phone and flashlight.
- Make a plan before you hunt.
- Tell someone your plan, including where you will be hunting and when to return.
- Stick to your plan.
- Identify the game before pointing a firearm.
- Know your target and what is beyond it.
For more information, see hunting.IN.gov.
