BY JOE MACALUSO | Contributing writer
21 hrs ago
Six more of Louisiana’s 10 deer hunting areas open for the archery season Wednesday after four opened Sept. 19.
Since most archery hunters hunt from a stand, tree-stand safety is a must if these folks want to run the season’s course and not spend time under a doctor’s care — or worse.
First, file a plan, something to let someone else know where you’re hunting, what time to expect a return, the make and color of your vehicle, your cellphone number and any other details emergency responders might need to track you down.
If you haven’t checked your stand from past year, make sure you do before climbing a ladder. If you use a climbing stand, make sure all fittings are secure and the frame is capable of bearing your weight — and pick a live, straight tree, one capable of supporting you and the stand.
About 20 years ago, full-body safety harnesses were made for climbing to avoid falls going up and down to and from a stand, and avoid going too high in the tree.
The bow and the arrows need to be left on the ground. Attach a length of rope to your harness, the bow and the quiver then pull them up after you’re situated in the stand.
Remember the “three” rule. Always have one hand or two feet, or two hands and one foot on the ladder at all times.
Just be safe.
Exposing the Big Game 