Safety Harness

• The best safety equipment available to a tree stand hunter is a full body safety harness, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Fasten the harness to the tree with the shortest safety tether that allows enough movement for the hunting activity. Follow manufacturer's instructions when using a safety harness.
  
  

Tree Stand

• Permanently mounted tree stands can deteriorate over time. Check each year for any signs of decay. Follow manufacturer's instructions when using temporary tree stands. Mount the tree stand in a sturdy tree and don't exceed the weight limits of the stand.
  
  

Climbing Aids

• Climbing devices, small apparatuses designed specifically to aid in tree climbing, can make the climb safer than climbing from branch to branch. Tree branches can break under the hunter's weight.
  
  

Equipment Rope

• Climbing a tree while carrying hunting equipment, specifically sharp arrows or guns, can be dangerous. Tie a rope to the equipment and pull it up the tree after the hunter has secured himself in the tree stand.
  
  

Survival Pack

• Survival packs, things like water bottles, candy bars and first aid kits, make the hunting experience safer. Tree stand hunters can leave this pack on the ground if space is limited in the tree stand. While it is not technically safety equipment the hunter should leave a map, including the location of his tree stand, with a responsible adult if rescue is necessary.