Open the archery season with the 5 points every hunter should strive for

ROCKFORD, Mich. – Hunting is already a dangerous pursuit, so there’s no reason to take unnecessary risks. But every year, hunters across Michigan believe that no accident will happen to them on the way to their tree stand.

And it does that every year.

“Leg fractures, spinal fractures, concussions,” Dr. Derek Blok has seen it all. “At least a couple of times a year I would see someone come into the emergency room, I would say, who fell off a log.”

These are accidents that safety trainer Ross Graveling says don’t have to happen because of the equipment and training now available.

Adam Bourland

“Five-point harnesses like these are now designed to keep you safe,” Graveliing said. “Now it’s more important that if you fall, you never hit the ground again. With the technology that’s out there now, with lifelines and some of the things we’re going to go through, you don’t have to worry about that anymore.”

But you have to understand it.

That’s why Ross recommends checking your gear well before the season to make sure it’s in good condition and doing a few practice runs NOW before fumbling with straps and knots during a hunt in the dark.

“With the technology we have, there is no reason to ever set foot on the ground,” Graveling added.

To see his step-by-step security process, watch the video below.

Tree stand safety

Just as important as the knowledge and correct use of safety equipment; Communication. Make sure someone knows where you are going when you go into the woods to hunt.

Even if it means giving up your favorite hunting spot.

“Any time you’re hunting on land that’s unfamiliar to you, like public land, if you haven’t been there before, you should go out and explore beforehand so you know where you’re going in and where you’re going “You have to come out so you don’t get lost,” Corporal Steve Orange of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources told me. “People know where you’re going to be and at least the general area where you’re going to settle, because that plan can change. But then you have to find a way to tell them.”

Andy Curtis

Conclusion? Use a Have the line ready when hunting above the ground and have someone drop a line when you go out.

Because it’s hard to shoot a buck from a hospital bed.

Archery season for deer begins October 1st.

In addition to safety gear, make sure you have the appropriate license and check regulations before heading into the forest this year.

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