Virginia Issued Tree Stand Safety Reminders
State officials released new safety guidelines following a season marked by 13 tree stand incidents.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hunting
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The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has issued updated safety protocols for hunters using tree stands. The move comes after the 2025-2026 hunting season saw 13 incidents, including one fatality.
Why it matters
The new guidance aims to curb preventable accidents by emphasizing foundational safety habits. Officials noted that many incidents involved hunters who had not completed formal education or lacked essential safety gear.
During the 2025-2026 season, there were 13 tree stand incidents and one death recorded. Notably, nearly half of these cases involved individuals who had not completed a hunter education course.
The players
Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
This state agency manages wildlife populations and regulates hunting activities within the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Tree Stand Safety Awareness Foundation
This non-profit organization focuses on preventing hunting accidents through educational resources and safety initiatives.
The details
Hunters are encouraged to utilize the ABCs of safety developed by the Tree Stand Safety Awareness Foundation: Always inspect gear, Buckle on a harness, Connect to the tree, and share your Destination. Experts also recommend carrying a signaling device like a whistle or horn and wearing blaze orange while in the stand to ensure visibility.
Timeline
The 2025-2026 hunting season saw 13 tree stand incidents and one death.
September 2026 marks National Tree Stand Safety Awareness month.
Culture Shift
The adoption of the Tree Stand Safety Awareness Foundation's ABCs of safety follows a documented effort by wildlife agencies to standardize protective measures for elevated hunting platforms. This reflects a broader shift toward formalizing safety training to mitigate risks inherent in modern recreational hunting.
Hunters should inspect all climbing equipment before heading out and ensure they are wearing a harness at all times while off the ground. These simple, life-saving habits require minimal time to implement but significantly reduce the risk of injury during the season.
The takeaway
Consistent use of a safety harness and regular gear inspection are the most effective ways to stay safe while hunting from elevated positions. Education remains a critical factor, as completing a safety course provides the essential skills needed to prevent accidents in the field.
Further reading
For additional guidance on safe practices, visit Virginia Hunting.
More information
Find comprehensive hunter education resources on the DWR website for hunter education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 8News.
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