Hunting from a treestand is a well known and often used strategy. Deer don’t tend to look up for predators, giving hunters an advantage.
Their effectiveness means they are ubiquitous, especially if you are pursuing white-tailed deer in the East. But ask anyone who has climbed up steps in the dark, or used a climber that slipped, or had a strap break and they will tell you it is one of the most traumatic events a hunter can experience.
Treestands help hunters see deer and other animals, but they come with risks. The statistic taught in hunter education is that 30% of everyone who uses a treestand will have an accident. Furthermore, 60% of those who had an accident resulted in a spinal fracture, the average age was 40, and the resulting hospital stay was 10 days. All that math adds up to the need to know, and practice tree stand safety.
Fall arrest systems (FAS) save lives. They save hunts. And they save families from needless heartache when they prevent an accident. For decades now, new treestands have come with a safety harness and a DVD (now usually a video link) that instructs the user how to safely and properly don a FAS.
If youve landed here, you likely have some questions: When should a hunter wear a fall arrest system? How exactly do these systems work? And what do I need to consider when purchasing one?
Hey fellow hunters! As someone who’s spent countless hours in tree stands, I know firsthand how crucial it is to understand proper safety procedures. Today, I’m gonna break down everything you need to know about when and how to attach yourself to a tree while hunting. Trust me, this isn’t just some boring safety lecture – this knowledge could literally save your life!
The Quick Answer
You must attach your Fall-Arrest System (FAS) to the tree while still at ground level, before you start climbing, and keep it attached until you’re back on solid ground. No exceptions!
Why This Matter So Much?
Look, I get it. Sometimes safety equipment feels like a hassle. But here’s the thing – tree stand accidents are way more common than you’d think. They can happen to anyone even experienced hunters like you and me. That’s why using proper safety gear ain’t optional – it’s essential.
Essential Components of Your FAS
1. Full-Body Harness
- Must be worn before leaving the ground
- Distributes fall forces across your:
- Thighs
- Pelvis
- Chest
- Shoulders
2. Lineman’s Belt/Climbing Belt
- Used while climbing up/down
- Wraps around tree above head level
- Connects to both sides of harness
3. Tether System
- Connects harness to tree
- Must be positioned above head height
- Needs zero slack when seated
Step-by-Step Guide: When to Attach Your FAS
-
Before Climbing (Ground Level)
- Put on full-body harness
- Check all buckles and connections
- Attach lineman’s belt to tree
-
During Climbing
- Keep lineman’s belt attached
- Maintain three points of contact
- Move deliberately and carefully
-
In the Stand
- Attach tether to tree strap
- Position above head level
- Remove all slack while seated
-
During Your Hunt
- Stay connected at all times
- Check connections periodically
- Don’t remove until back on ground
Pro Tips for Safe FAS Use
DO’s:
- Practice with your FAS at ground level first
- Inspect equipment before each use
- Replace any worn or damaged components
- Follow manufacturer’s guidelines
- Keep suspension relief strap accessible
DON’Ts:
- Never climb without FAS attached
- Don’t leave slack in your tether
- Never disconnect while elevated
- Don’t use expired equipment
- Avoid climbing during bad weather
What If You Fall?
If the worst happens and you fall:
- Don’t panic! Your FAS will hold you
- Signal for help if possible
- Try to climb back onto platform
- Use suspension relief strap
- Keep moving legs to prevent trauma
Equipment Maintenance and Inspection
Your FAS needs regular attention to stay safe:
- Check for:
- Fraying
- Worn spots
- Damaged buckles
- Expired components
- Replace after any fall
- Store in dry place
- Follow expiration dates
Real Talk: Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen plenty of hunters make these mistakes:
-
“I’ll just attach it when I get up there”
- Nope! Attach before leaving ground
-
“I’ve been doing this for years without FAS”
- Experience doesn’t make you fall-proof
-
“It’s just a quick hunt”
- Accidents don’t check your schedule
-
“This old harness still looks good”
- Replace worn or expired equipment
Special Considerations
Weather Impacts
- Wet conditions need extra caution
- Check equipment after rain exposure
- Be extra careful with frozen equipment
Stand Types
Different stands need specific approaches:
- Hang-on stands
- Climbing stands
- Ladder stands
- Each requires proper FAS use
Getting Started: Your Safety Checklist
Before your next hunt, make sure you:
- Have proper FAS equipment
- Practiced at ground level
- Inspected all components
- Know emergency procedures
- Have emergency contacts ready
Final Thoughts
Look, I know safety ain’t the most exciting topic, but it’s crazy important. As someone who loves hunting and wants to keep doing it for years to come, I can’t stress enough how crucial proper FAS use is. Don’t be that person who learns the hard way – attach yourself to the tree properly, every single time.
Remember: The best hunters ain’t just good shots – they’re smart about safety too. Stay safe out there, folks!
Quick Reference Table
| Stage | Action Required |
|---|---|
| Ground Level | Put on harness & attach |
| Climbing | Use lineman’s belt |
| In Stand | Connect tether |
| Descending | Stay attached |
| After Hunt | Inspect equipment |
Got questions about tree stand safety? Drop ’em in the comments below – I’m always happy to help fellow hunters stay safe out there!
Note: This guide is based on current safety standards and best practices as of October 2024. Always check your local regulations and manufacturer guidelines for specific requirements.
What are the Main Components of a Fall Arrest System?
FAS are deceptively simple, but each part must be correctly affixed to work in tandem. The main components of this system include:
- Full-body harnesses. This safety vest is very effective in supporting the body upon suspension.
- Tree Tether. This is the component that attaches the full-body harness to the tree strap tether or lineman’s belt. It features shock-absorption qualities.
- Suspension relief strap. This provides a loop to stand in case a hunter falls.
When Should a Hunter Wear a Fall Arrest System (FAS)?
The answer to this question is easy: Any time your feet are off the ground, your harness should be on and you should be maintaining multiple points of contact. This includes:
- When climbing a tree (or anything, really)
- When hanging a tree stand using climbing aids
- When entering and exiting a tree stand
- While hunting from a tree stand
Just like following your states requirements for
How to Climb Trees with the Basics!
FAQ
How do you protect yourself if you fall on a tree?
To protect yourself if you fall, always wear your FAS full-body harness, attaching it to the tree at ground level and keeping it attached throughout your hunt. Attach one end of the FAS lineman’s-style belt to one side of the FAS full-body harness, wrap the belt around the tree, and attach the other end of the belt to the other side of the harness.
How do you attach a tree strap to a stand?
Attach the tree strap to the tree so that the strap is at, or above, head level when you are standing. After attaching the tether, adjust both the tree strap and tether so that you have no slack in the tether while seated in your stand. If you fall, you do not want to drop below a level that would keep you from returning to the platform.
How do you use a tree stand?
Attach your FAS to the tree while at ground level, and keep it attached throughout your hunt—from the time you leave the ground until you get back down. Use a tree stand only during daylight hours. Practice first with your tree stand and FAS at ground level, using all safety devices that were included with the stand.
How do you tether a tree stand?
Attach the tether to the tree strap so that you have no slack while seated in your stand. If you fall, you do not want your feet to drop below a level that would keep you from climbing back onto the platform. When climbing into or out of a tree stand, always use three points of contact with your hands and feet.
How do you attach a FAS tree tether?
Attach the FAS tree strap to the tree so that the strap is at head level when you are standing. Attach the tether to the tree strap so that you have no slack while seated in your stand. If you fall, you do not want your feet to drop below a level that would keep you from climbing back onto the platform.
What should I do before using a tree stand?
Get enough sleep to ensure that you are well rested before using a tree stand. Carry a signaling device, such as a whistle, cell phone, two-way radio, or personal locator beacon (PLB), to let others know if you have a problem. Take your time and plan every move you make while installing and using an elevated stand.