With the opening of the archery deer season today, local authorities are reminding hunters to be safe when they head out this fall.

The warm start to October may deter some hunters from going out initially which would be a good time to check those tree stands. DNR Conservation Police Sergeant John Williamson says tree stand safety is becoming a growing concern for them as they have seen a spike in tree stand accidents the last few years.

Tree stand and trail camera thefts have increased in recent years. Williamson encourages hunters to make special markings on their stands or note the serial number so in the event they are taken, they increase their chances of recovering them.

Williamson also says to double-check with a property owner who's land you'll be on. Even if you're related or close with the owner, sometimes exchanges of property can take place and it never hurts to make sure the spot you go to is still theirs.

One of the most helpful things hunters can do is tell someone where they are headed. Williamson has seen it happen where a hunter will go out, not tell anyone where they went, something happens to that hunter and they find an unfortunate scene when they get them tracked down.