Final answer:
The first step when raising a firearm into a tree stand is to ensure it is unloaded with the action open, maintain muzzle safety, and use a haul line to raise the firearm after securing oneself in the stand.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step when raising your firearm into a tree stand is ensuring that the firearm is unloaded and the action is open. Safety is the utmost priority when handling firearms, especially when you are in an elevated position such as a tree stand. It is crucial to keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and use a haul line to raise and lower the firearm. Before climbing up to or down from the tree stand, attach the firearm to the haul line, keeping the action open and the firearm unloaded. Only once you are securely positioned in the stand should you pull the firearm up to you, carefully ensuring that it's done so in a manner that keeps the muzzle pointing away from you and others.