RALEIGH, N.C. — State officials are urging safety this season as deer hunters head into the woods across North Carolina.

Archery season for white-tailed deer will open statewide on Sept. 10.

While hunting from an elevated stand is a popular tactic used by deer hunters, especially archers, officials say tree stands can be dangerous if not used correctly.

“If using a tree stand, hunters should always use a fall-arrest system and follow the manufacturer’s recommended safety procedures,” said Carissa Daniels, the statewide education and engagement manager for the Wildlife Commission. “Those simple measures go a long way in helping hunters stay safe while hunting with a tree stand.”

To help ensure a safe hunting season, the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission and the Tree Stand Safety Awareness Foundation have provided the following safety recommendations when using a tree stand.

Preparing to use your tree stand:

  • Remove all your equipment and inspect it for damage before using it. This includes belts, chains, bolts, ratchet straps and attachment cords. Replace them if necessary
  • Wear a full-body safety harness as part of a fall-arrest system
  • Ensure you do not exceed the stand manufacturer’s maximum height or weight limits
  • Pack an emergency signal device, such as a cell phone, two-way radio or a whistle

Setting up your tree stand:

  • Share your stand location with someone before each hunt
  • Select a healthy, straight tree for your tree stand
  • Ask someone to assist you with setting up the stand

Using your tree stand:

  • Buckle your harness securely and connect to the tree tether before your feet leave the ground
  • Maintain three points of contact when climbing the ladder; two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand. Most falls occur when climbing up or down
  • Use a lineman’s belt and/or lifeline when climbing or descending
  • Raise and lower equipment using a haul line – never carry anything as you climb

According to the Wildlife Commission, tree stand incidents accounted for 20% of hunting-related incidents in 2021. Officials say that does not account for unreported incidents.

Additional safety information can be found through the Wildlife Commission’s hunter safety education campaign, Home from the Hunt.

For more information on the 2022-23 white-tailed deer season, including dates, limits, hunting licenses and more, click here.