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The Importance of a Fall Arrest System for Hunters

A tree stand is an important piece of equipment for any hunter. However, if the stand or its support fails to work correctly, it can lead to devastating falls. Make sure you are using the proper safety gear every time by investing in a fall arrest system! Read this article to learn more about them..

Sayak

May 31, 2023 • 8 min read

Hunting from a tree stand can be a great way to get closer to your prey, but it can also be dangerous. Make sure you're using the proper safety equipment every time with our fall arrest system!

However, tree stands and sticks can be dangerous; if they are faulty or not used correctly. They can lead to devastating falls. A fall arrest system is an important piece of safety equipment for any saddle hunters or anyone using tree stands.

With a proper fall arrest system, you'll feel safe and secure while hunting from a tree stand. It's important to always follow safety guidelines for hunting, and having proper safety gear should be of topmost priority for you.

Read along to know why you should use a fall arrest system next time you are going out hunting.

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What is a fall arrest system?

A fall arrest system is a safety system that helps to prevent hunters from falling out of their tree stands and injuring themselves.

It typically consists of a harness, rope, and anchoring points. The harness attaches to the hunter's body and the rope is connected to the anchoring points. If the hunter falls, the rope will tighten and help to slow their descent. This prevents them from hitting the ground with too much force and reduces the risk of serious injury.

How Fall Arrest Systems Work

Fall arrest systems typically consist of a full-body harness, a lanyard, and a tether. The full-body harness goes around the hunter's body and attaches to the tree stand, while the lanyard attaches to the harness and the tree stand.

The tether is then attached to the lanyard, and its other end is clipped to the hunter's clothing. If the hunter were to fall out of the tree stand, the tether would catch them and prevent them from hitting the ground.

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Why Fall Arrest Systems Are Important

Fall arrest systems are important because they can help to save lives. According to ScienceDirect, tree-stand-related injuries are more common than other hunting injuries. Every year, many hunters are severely injured or killed in falls from tree stands.

According to Treestand Manufacturers Association, 95% of all treestand-related serious injuries are direct results of hunters not wearing full body harnesses or any fall arrest system(view the source here).

Though these numbers have vastly improved, 2021 saw the lowest number of accidents. Even then, according to one study, falls from tree stands account for a large percentage of all hunting injuries that require hospitalization (see the article here).

Falls can cause serious injuries like broken bones, spinal cord damage, concussions, and more. In some cases, these injuries can be fatal.

Using a fall arrest system can help to reduce the risk of these injuries by providing hunters with a safety net in case they happen to fall out of their tree stand.

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Frequently Asked Questions

As a hunter, you probably wonder if a fall arrest system is the right choice for your hunting trip.

A fall arrest system can be an important safety measure in your hunting gear list, but it's important to ensure you choose the right system for your needs.

We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about fall arrest systems so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not this type of safety equipment is right for you.

Is it necessary for hunters to buy a fall arrest system?

While it is not legally required for hunters to use a fall arrest system, it is highly recommended if you hunt from saddles or tree stands.

A fall arrest system can help prevent serious injury in the event of a fall and can help you stay safe while hunting. Various fall arrest systems are available, so be sure to choose one that is right for you.

What are the different types of fall arrest systems for hunters?

There are different types of fall arrest systems for hunters, including body harnesses, lanyards, and shock-absorbing tethers.

Body harnesses are the most common type of fall arrest system. They fit around your chest and legs and have straps that attach to a lanyard or shock-absorbing tether.

Lanyards are thin ropes or cords that connect the harness to the anchor point, such as a tree or building. Shock-absorbing tethers are devices that attach to the harness and lanyard and help to reduce the impact of a fall.

Are there any safety standards for the fall arrest system for hunters?

There are no specific safety standards for fall arrest systems for hunters, but there are fall arrest standards that are generally applicable. The key thing to look for in a fall arrest system is that it can handle the weight of the person who will be using it. So, make sure you choose a rated system to accommodate your weight.

In addition, you should always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the use of any fall arrest system. Improper use of a fall arrest system can result in serious injury or death.

How often should a fall arrest system for tree stand hunters be replaced?

Replacement intervals vary based on the type of system, body weight, and other factors. However, most arborists recommend replacing a fall arrest system after five years of use.

What is the primary purpose of a suspension relief strap on a full-body harness?

A suspension relief strap is used on a full-body harness to provide relief from suspension trauma.

Suspension trauma can occur when a person is suspended in a harness for an extended period of time. The pressure on the legs can cause the blood flow to be restricted and lead to health problems. The suspension relief strap helps to redistribute the weight, providing relief from the trauma.

Where do you put a safety harness for tree stand hunters?

A fall arrest system can be attached to the tree in a number of ways. One way is to wrap it around the tree trunk and then buckle it. Another way is to clip it onto a D-ring already on the safety harness.

Again, it is important to ensure the harness fits well and that all straps are secured properly. The harness should also be checked regularly for wear and tear.

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This video highlights the safety of using a harness on the Treestand Safety page of Virginia DWR :

Finally, The Importance of Safety For Hunters

If you're a hunter who frequently uses tree stands, you must use a fall arrest system every time you hunt. Fall protection is an important safety consideration for hunters.

A fall arrest system can help prevent serious injury in the event of a fall, and it is important to know when hunters should wear one.

You should always follow safety guidelines while using tree stands and sticks and have a fall arrest system, and you should be sure to inspect your equipment before each use.

Happy hunting!