(WEAU) - The DNR says since one-third of all hunters who use tree stands will fall from them at some point, hunters need to wear harnesses and take an online safety course.

Another safety tip for hunters the weekend of October 8th and 9th, wardens say bow hunters need to wear blaze orange because that's the youth gun deer hunt.

Below is a link to the online safety course.

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DNR Press Release

MADISON – Climbing a tree is not like riding a bike -- and this is why hunters need to think about refreshing or learning skills to maneuver in tree stands.

“If you scaled trees as a child but haven’t done it as an adult, it will not come back to you with that first leg up the branch in search of the keen hunting spot,” says Tim Lawhern, Division of Enforcement and Science Administrator for the Department of Natural Resources. “This is why Wisconsin hunter education specialists urge all hunters to become professionals in tree stand safety.”

Lawhern says statistics show about one-third of all hunters who use tree stands fall from that stand in their hunting careers.

“Being an amateur when it comes to using stands can be a deadly mistake,” he says. “One third of hunters will be involved in a tree stand safety incident at some point in their lives, history show.”

Lawhern urges all hunters who use tree stands to complete an online tree stand safety course. “It’s free, fun and the information could save your life,” Lawhern said. “You must know how to use the equipment necessary for tree stand use. That includes a body harness and knowing well your physical limitations.”

Hunters who wonder what professionals say about tree stand safety should take the course, Lawhern said.

“Amateurs practice until they get things right,” Lawhern said. “This method could cause you a broken bone – or your life. Professionals practice until they can’t get them wrong. Become a professional in tree stand safety.”