No Fatalities in Arkansas Hunting Season, a Welcome Relief
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) has reported a milestone in their latest hunting season statistics: there were no hunting fatalities during the 2023-24 seasons. This makes it the first season without fatalities since 2018. While the achievement is significant, it does not mean the season was perfect; there were still 19 incidents, with two involving firearms and one involving a crossbow.
AGFC Hunter Education Program Coordinator Joe Huggins highlighted the importance of safety measures, particularly with respect to treestand usage. The number one cause of hospitalizations during the season was falls from treestands. Huggins emphasized that all but one of these incidents could have been prevented by using safety harnesses, as the falls mostly occurred when hunters were climbing into or exiting the stands.
Despite this, Arkansas hunters have seen a significant improvement in their overall safety record. The AGFC attributes this to increased awareness and education efforts, including the use of lifeline devices to attach safety harnesses securely during climbs. The AGFC continues to provide essential resources for hunters, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
