JEFFERSON HILLS (KDKA) — Rescue crews had to use ATVs to reach a hunter who fell out of a tree stand in Jefferson Hills and was unable to get out of the woods on his own.

He was leaving a metal tree stand when he slipped as he took his first step.

“When he went to exit the tree stand, he tripped and fell. We’re not sure how long he was unconscious if he was unconscious at all,” said Chief Adam Galis, from the Gill Hall Fire Department.

Despite his injuries, he was able to call 911 from his cell phone. Police, who were the first to show up, didn’t know exactly where he was, so the man stayed on the phone to direct them.

“The police department used their siren, turned them on, as they got closer, he would say, ‘Closer, closer, closer,’” said Chief Galis.

Since the hunter was alone, the chief says the outcome could have been different if he hadn’t had his cell phone.

Neighbor Lorri Kerns agrees. “At least he was well enough that he could make a call or do something, if he would have been unconscious, it would have been a whole different story.”

The hunter’s name was not released. He was flown by medical helicopter to the hospital. There is no word on the extent of his injuries.