Challenges Faced by Indiana Farmers in 2023 Harvest Season

As the deer hunting season gets underway in Indiana, safety should be a top priority for all hunters. With more than 300,000 people expected to participate in various deer hunting seasons running through January 31, 2024, Indiana Conservation Officers are urging hunters to follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting experience.

While the majority of hunters act safely, accidents can still happen, and the most common injuries occur when hunting from tree stands and elevated platforms. To reduce the risk of accidents, here are some important safety tips for hunters, particularly those hunting from elevated positions: Before the Hunt:

• Read and understand the manufacturer's instructions for your tree stand.

• Inspect tree stands and equipment for signs of wear, fatigue, cracks, or loose nuts and bolts. Pay special attention to non-metal parts.

• Use equipment specifically designed for hunting.

• Practice setting up and using your tree stand at ground level.

• Learn how to wear your full-body safety harness correctly.

During the Hunt:

• Always wear your full-body safety harness while in an elevated position.

• Use a tree stand safety rope.

• Ensure your harness is attached to the tree before leaving the ground and remains attached until you return to the ground.

• Maintain three points of contact when ascending or descending from your stand.

• Wear boots with nonslip soles.

• Use a haul line to raise and lower firearms, bows, and hunting gear.

• Ensure firearms are unloaded, actions are open, and safeties are engaged before attaching them to the haul line.

In addition to tree stand safety, here are some general hunting safety tips: • Carry a cellphone and a flashlight.

• Make a clear plan for your hunt, including where you will be hunting and when you plan to return.

• Share your plan with someone, so they know your whereabouts.

• Stick to your plan and avoid deviating from it.

• Always identify your target and what is beyond it before pointing a firearm.

By following these safety guidelines, Indiana deer hunters can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safe and responsible hunting season. For more information and resources, visit hunting.IN.gov.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-orientaly