GEORGIA (WALB) — The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GDNR) reminds deer hunters to keep tree stand safety a priority during the 2026–2027 deer season.

In the 2025–2026 deer season, 18 of the 24 reported hunting incidents were tree-stand related. Two hunters died in these incidents, according to GDNR.

GDNR recommends hunters:

• Use a fall-arrest system/full-body harness when climbing up or descending from a hunting stand.
• Have an emergency rescue plan in place.
• Use a haul line to bring items into the stand and lower them to the ground.

GDNR warns that prolonged suspension in a full-body harness can be fatal. If a hunter is hanging for an extended period of time, the department recommends: “Exercise your legs by pushing against the tree or doing any other form of continuous motion, or use your suspension relief device.”

Other safety measures DNR recommends when using tree stands:

• Securely fasten the tree stand to the tree.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when assembling the stand.
• Follow the fall-arrest/full-body harness manufacturer’s instructions when ascending and descending.
• Consider whether your physical condition would allow for a safe self-rescue if needed.
• Avoid taking medications that could cause drowsiness when using a tree stand.

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