Saturday marked the first day of archery season – and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is asking hunters to make sure they follow the rules and use precautions when operating a weapon.

DNR Hunting and Safety Trainer, Ben Kirkland says although bows and arrows aren’t as deadly as some guns, their point is very sharp and can do a lot of damage.

While many hunters understand the importance of weapon safety, Kirkland says they don’t realize the real danger lies in improper use of tree stands.

The DNR says hunters should always use a Fall-Arrest System that harnesses a person to the tree in case of a fall.

Kirkland adds that even though a tree stand may have been secure the year before, trees are always growing so it is important to check them before every season.

When trying to bag a deer, the DNR reminds hunters to print a current Deer Harvest Record because they’re only good for a single hunting season.