What should be done before climbing a tree stand with a firearm?

Before climbing a tree stand with a firearm, it is crucial to secure the firearm to a rope. This is the correct answer because securing the firearm to a rope ensures that the firearm is under control and cannot accidentally fall from the tree stand, which could result in a dangerous situation.

Unloading the firearm, climbing up with the firearm in one hand, and ensuring the safety is on are not recommended practices before climbing a tree stand with a firearm. Unloading the firearm is important, but securing it to a rope adds an extra layer of safety. Climbing with the firearm in one hand can lead to accidents or drops, and relying solely on the safety being on may not prevent accidental discharge. Therefore, securing the firearm to a rope is the best option to ensure safety when climbing a tree stand with a firearm.