Tree stand accidents prompt safety reminders

TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI) - Two reports of hunters falling from their tree stands are prompting conservation officers to remind hunters how important it is to make sure your tree stand is safe for hunting season.

Officers said if a tree stand is left up in between seasons, the weather elements can rust it, making it weaker. And wildlife (such as the squirrel population), can eat parts of it.

Officers said you don't have to build a new stand every year, but they said to make sure a new one doesn't need to be built.

They said hunters should always wear a harness while in a tree stand.

"Always have two people with you," Conservation Officer Matt Tholen said. "At least another person to help you out. And if you get an opportunity, we always recommend wearing a harness. Whether you're checking your tree stand or you're hunting, we always recommend wearing a harness, a safety belt, and attach it to the tree."

Both hunters who fell from the tree stands sustained minor injuries. One of the hunters was wearing his harness, however, he had not hooked it to the tree before the fall.