Michigan DNR release

A common way of deer hunting is from an elevated tree stand. With archery season starting in a few days, it’s a great time to brush up on how to stay safe when hunting from a tree. Keep these safety tips in mind the next time you’re in an elevated stand.

• Wear a full-body harness that is properly attached above your head.

• Always maintain three points of contact when climbing up to or down from the stand.

• Ensure your tree stand is securely attached and stable before using it.

• Use a haul line to get your hunting gear to and from the stand.

Tree stands placed on public land must have the hunter’s name and address and complete Michigan driver’s license number or DNR Sportcard number in legible English that can be easily read from the ground.

During every hunt, make safety your top priority. Need a refresher? The DNR’s hunter education program teaches tree stand safety, firearm handling, first aid and other important skills.

Visit Michigan.gov/HunterEducation to locate a hunter safety course or read more safety tips.