Hunting incident report reinforces continued need for treestand safety

LITTLE ROCK — Cooler weather has many deer hunters heading to the woods to set up their hunting stands for the coming archery opener on Sept. 27, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission wants to remind all hunters to double-check all of their equipment before they climb into a tree and always wear a safety harness when they leave the ground. According to the recently released Fiscal Year 2025 Hunter Incident Report, 11 of the 17 reported hunting accidents in Arkansas were the result of treestand falls.

With more than 307,000 hunting licenses sold last year, 17 injuries requiring medical assistance beyond first aid reinforce the fact that hunting is a safe, enjoyable outdoor pursuit. In the eyes of the AGFC’s Education Division, any injury while enjoying the woods and waters of The Natur