Illinois Officials Warn Hunters After Spike in Tree Stand Accidents

Officials are issuing an urgent warning to Illinois hunters after a surge in serious accidents ahead of firearm deer season.

Rising Concerns as Illinois Hunters Prepare for Deer Season

As firearm deer season approaches in Illinois, a warning has been issued to hunters after the growing number of dangerous and often fatal tree stand accidents.

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According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), reports indicate that 70 percent of all hunting incidents in 2024 were related to tree stand falls, reinforcing their position as the leading cause of hunting-related injuries and deaths.

Fatal Falls Highlight Urgent Need for Safety Measures

According to the IDNR, one of the most devastating incidents this year involved a hunter who fell roughly 15 feet, suffering a broken pelvis, fractured ribs, and a punctured lung. The injuries resulted in the hunter's death.

Above all else, the Illinois Conservation Police want to make sure every hunter makes it back home safely after each outing. A great hunt starts and ends with smart choices. -Jed Whitchurch, director of IDNR’s Office of Law Enforcement

Officials say that many of the accidents occur because hunters fail to use a fall arrest system, despite the widespread availability of safety harnesses designed to prevent high-impact falls.

Injury Trends Show Preventable Patterns

According to the IDNR report, tree stand-related falls consistently make up the majority of hunting injuries in Illinois. Annual totals include 15 incidents in 2024 (one fatal), 17 in 2023 (three fatal), six in 2022, and 13 in 2021.

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Typical fall heights range from 20 to 30 feet, causing broken bones, spinal damage, paralysis, and internal injuries, many of which authorities stress are preventable.

IDNR Highlights Safety Tips for 2025 Season

With firearm deer season set for November 21 through 23 and December 4 through 7, IDNR urges hunters to use fall arrest systems, inspect stands before use, avoid alcohol, carry a cell phone, and alert someone of their plans.

"The thrill of the hunt should never come at the cost of your health," Whitchurch said.