Essential Items For Tree Stand Safety: Protect Yourself While Hunting

If you’re an avid hunter or outdoor enthusiast, you’ve used a tree stand at some point. Tree stands are a popular way to gain a vantage point for hunting or wildlife observation, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly. Tree stand safety is of utmost importance for anyone who hunts from an elevated position. According to the Tree Stand Safety Awareness Foundation, falls from tree stands are the leading cause of injury and death among deer hunters.

Investing in quality safety equipment is important for ensuring your safety while using a tree stand. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, you should have all kinds of safety equipment. The proper safety equipment will give you all the benefits of using a tree stand without putting you at risk. There are several must-have items that hunters should have with them to ensure their safety when using a tree stand. So let’s dive in and explore the essential items you need for tree stand safety!

Harness System: 

A harness system is the most important safety measure when using a tree stand. A harness system keeps you securely attached to the tree stand and prevents falls. Choosing a harness system that fits properly and meets safety standards is essential. Here are some key features to look for in a harness system:

• Comfort: A harness system should be comfortable to wear for extended periods. Look for padding and adjustable straps to ensure a custom fit.
• Weight capacity: Check the weight capacity of the harness system to make sure it can support your weight.
• Tether length: The tether length should be long enough to allow movement but short enough to prevent a fall.
• Certification: Look for a harness system that meets safety standards, such as those set by the Treestand Manufacturer’s Association (TMA) or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Several types of harness systems are available, including full-body, chest, and vest-style harnesses. Full-body harnesses offer the most comprehensive protection, while chest and vest-style harnesses can be more comfortable and easier to wear.

Some recommended harness systems for tree stand safety include the Hunter Safety System Ultra-Lite Flex Harness, the Muddy Magnum Pro Harness, and the Summit Tree stands Pro Safety Harness.

Remember, wearing a harness system is non-negotiable when using a tree stand. It’s the best way to prevent falls and ensure safety while enjoying the outdoors.

Tree Strap: 

A tree strap is an essential safety equipment that should be used when using a tree stand. The tree strap is wrapped around the tree and secured to the tree stand, providing additional support and stability.

Tree straps help ensure that your tree stand remains securely attached to the tree and can prevent the stand from slipping or falling out of place. They also provide an additional safety measure if the tree stand fails, helping to prevent falls and other accidents.

When using a tree strap, make sure that it’s attached to the tree at a comfortable height but also provides enough clearance from the ground to prevent contact with any nearby obstacles or hazards. Additionally, ensure that the strap is tight and secure and that no twists or kinks could compromise its effectiveness.

Overall, using a tree strap is essential to tree stand safety.

Safety Line:

A safety line is used in conjunction with the tree strap to keep the hunter securely attached to the tree at all times. It should be robust, tangle-free and long enough to allow movement within the stand.

Haul Line:

A haul line raises and lowers gear up to and down from the tree stand. It should be firm and long enough to accommodate all necessary gear.

Safety Whistle:

A safety whistle can be used to signal for help in case of an emergency.

Cell Phone:

A cell phone can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Make sure to keep it fully charged and easily accessible.

First Aid Kit:

A first aid kit should be kept in your hunting pack and contain essential medical supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

Emergency Kit:

An emergency kit should also be kept in your hunting pack and contain items such as a flashlight, spare batteries, matches or a lighter, and a space blanket.

Bow Rope:

If you use a bow, you may need a bow rope to lower it safely to the ground when you are done hunting.

General Safety Tips

In addition to using proper safety equipment and maintaining your gear, there are several general safety tips to keep in mind when using a tree stand:

• Practice using your gear before heading out to the field. Please get familiar with how it works and how to use it safely.
• Always inform someone of your intended location and expected return time so they know where to find you if necessary.
• Be mindful of the weather conditions. High winds, lightning, and other adverse weather can make using a tree stand dangerous.
• Avoid alcohol or drugs when using a tree stand. Impaired judgment or balance can increase the risk of injury or death.
• Always use a safety harness system and never rely solely on the tree stand or platform for support.
• Keep your gear, weapons, and equipment secure and within reach while in the tree stand.
• Use a safety rope or line when hoisting your gear up to the tree stand.
• Consider using a safety rope or line when climbing to the tree stand as an added safety measure.
• Take your time when setting up and using the tree stand. Rushing or taking shortcuts can lead to accidents.
• Finally, always follow local laws and regulations for using tree stands and hunting on public or private land.

Following these general safety tips can further reduce the risk of accidents and injuries while using a tree stand for hunting or other outdoor activities.

Read also: What Are The Different Types of Hunting Tree Stands

What is the biggest hazard of tree stands?

The biggest hazard of tree stands is the risk of falls from an elevated position. Falls from tree stands are a leading cause of hunting-related injuries and deaths. When using a tree stand, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts are at risk of losing their balance, slipping, or encountering other unforeseen circumstances that can lead to a fall.

Falling from an elevated position can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and even death. That’s why it’s essential to prioritize safety and take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of falls while using a tree stand.

Read also: Hang-On or Climbing Tree Stand: Which Works Best?

What is the most common cause of falling out of a tree stand?

The most common cause of falling out of a tree stand is the failure to use a safety harness or misusing it. In many cases, hunters or wildlife enthusiasts who fell from a tree stand were not wearing or misusing a safety harness.

A safety harness is designed to keep the user attached to the tree stand in the event of a fall, preventing them from hitting the ground. Failure to use or misuse a safety harness greatly increases the risk of falls and can result in severe injury or death. Other common causes of falls from tree stands include:

• Using damaged or faulty equipment.
• Overloading the tree stand.
• Losing balance while climbing up or down.

Following all safety guidelines and procedures when using a tree stand is important to prevent accidents and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Read also: 

• Best ladder Tree Stand For Hunting
• Best Climbing Tree Stand
• Best Hang on Tree Stand