When Should You Attach Yourself to a Tree While Hunting? A Guide to Proper Use of Fall-Arrest Systems

Hunting from an elevated tree stand can be an exciting and effective technique for getting a better vantage point and staying concealed. However, hunting from heights also introduces the risk of falls, which can cause severe injuries and even death.

That’s why it’s absolutely critical to use proper safety equipment and techniques when hunting from elevated stands. A key piece of safety gear is a fall-arrest system (FAS). This refers to a full-body harness combined with a tether that attaches you to the tree.

So when exactly should you attach yourself to the tree with your FAS? The short answer is that your FAS must be properly attached to you and the tree at all times after leaving the ground But let’s look in more detail at guidelines for safe FAS use,

Attaching Your FAS Full-Body Harness

Your FAS full-body harness is your primary protection in case of a fall. It’s designed to distribute fall forces across your thighs, pelvis, chest and shoulders rather than concentrating forces on vital organs.

You must put on and attach your full-body harness at ground level before you ever leave the ground. It must remain attached to the tree at all times until you are back on the ground at the end of your hunt. Never remove it while elevated.

Once you have your harness on, use the FAS lineman’s belt to attach yourself to the tree as you climb into your elevated stand. Wrap the belt around the tree above your head and attach each end to the appropriate side of the harness.

The lineman’s belt keeps you secured to the tree as you climb in or out of a hang-on stand You should also use it while installing or removing hang-on stands

Attaching Your FAS Tether

In addition to the full-body harness, an FAS includes a tether or strap that connects you directly to the tree.

Once you are in any elevated stand, including a ladder stand, use the tether to attach your harness to the tree. Wrap the tether’s tree strap around the tree above head height. Then connect the tether from the tree strap to the harness.

It’s critical that you adjust the tether to eliminate all slack when you are seated in your stand. If you fall, you don’t want to drop below the level of the platform.

Leaving slack in the tether could allow you to fall and be suspended upside down, leading to a dangerous condition known as suspension trauma. The tether limits your fall and lets you climb back onto the platform or ladder stand.

Use Your FAS at All Times

Again, it’s vital to stress that your full-body harness and tether must be attached to the tree before leaving the ground and remain attached at all times until you return to the ground.

• Attach your harness and lineman’s belt at ground level before ascending.

• Keep them attached as you climb into your elevated stand.

• Securely attach the tether after arriving in your stand.

• Never remove any part of your FAS while off the ground.

Accidents happen quickly. A safety harness does you no good if it’s hanging unused in your pack or pocket. Keep it on from start to finish every time.

Practice Proper Use Before Your Hunt

Tree stand falls can happen to even the most experienced hunters. Don’t let overconfidence or haste lead to an avoidable accident. Take the time to carefully practice using your FAS a few times at ground level prior to using it at heights.

Ensure you know how to properly put on the full-body harness, securely attach all contact points, adjust the tether lengths, and use the suspension relief strap. Practice until the process feels natural.

Having an experienced hunting buddy present to check your equipment and attachments can also help avoid crucial errors. Taking these steps will help ensure your FAS performs as designed if ever needed.

Pick Quality Equipment and Inspect It

Not all FAS products are created equal. Select only harnesses and tethers designed specifically as fall-arrest systems that meet industry standards. Follow individual manufacturers’ guidelines for proper use.

Inspect all FAS equipment prior to each use. Look for fraying, damage, or wear. Confirm the expiration date has not passed. Do not attempt to repair faulty or expired equipment. Destroy and replace any gear showing problems. Your life is worth the small additional cost.

Follow Suspension Trauma Guidelines

In the event of a fall, your FAS will stop you from hitting the ground. However, the harness can also leave you suspended upside down. This is known as suspension trauma and can be fatal if you hang too long.

If you cannot quickly climb back onto your platform or ladder, use the suspension relief strap built into quality FAS harnesses to take pressure off restricted areas. You can also pump your legs frequently to keep blood flowing until rescued. Get back to your stand or ground as soon as possible.

Never Take Chances at Height

Hunting from trees allows access to new vantage points and better chances of taking game. But the risks of falls are real. Many accidents happen due to lapses in safety, such as:

• Forgetting to wear your harness and tether or detaching them prematurely
• Poor adjustment leading to slack and inverted suspension after a fall
• Damaged or expired equipment breaking when fall forces are applied

Every time you leave the ground is an opportunity for disaster if the right precautions aren’t taken. Never let your guard down just because you’ve done it many times before. Stay focused on each step of the safety checklist every time to avoid tragedy.

Smart use of quality fall-arrest systems can give you the best of both worlds: access to elevated stands along with protection in case of slips or equipment failures. Take the time to learn proper harness use and inspection. Follow manufacturer guidelines faithfully. Confirm a snug, secure fit before leaving the ground.

By making FAS use an unbreakable habit, you can enjoy successful hunts from tree stands for years to come. Stay safe out there!