Building treestands on private land is one thing, but the Pennsylvania Game Commission warns that only portable stands are allowed on public land.

Even on private land, the Game Commission does not recommend homemade stands that are affixed to trees with hammers and nails or screws, since those will loosen due to movement and weather.

For homemade stands, free-standing structures on man-made foundations are preferred.

“Those things can clearly be safe if they’re put up right, but again, those have to be constructed properly,” said Jerry Feaser, press secretary for the Game Commission in Harrisburg.

“We recommend you buy a treestand that is approved by the Treestand Manufacturers Association, and select the right tree,” he said. “One that is alive, has good bark — not bark that is peeling off or slippery bark — and is a tree that can sustain your weight. Preferably a hardwood tree.”

Other safety tips include using a safety harness, checking equipment often, following manufacturer instructions for treestand assembly and maintenance, avoiding treestand use on windy days, and using a tow rope to transport equipment to and from the stand.

“Do not attempt to climb with all your gear,” Feaser said.

“Utilize a tow rope to bring up your gear — including your firearm. Do not attach (the tow rope) to the trigger or trigger guard. Make sure your firearm is unloaded and there are no rounds in the chamber as you tow it up.”