Tree Stand Industry Responds To Risks With Warnings, Education, And Body Harness

Based on our experience in insuring archery and hunt clubs, falls from tree stands represent one of the biggest lawsuit hazards along with ATV accidents.

Had the recent experience to set up a manufactured tree stand with my son (in photo).  We were amazed at the detailed safety instructions and DVD that explained all the different things that could go wrong in the set up and while actually hunting.  Evidently, every manufactured tree stand of this type comes with a body harness that should be worn at all times and attached to the tree by a climbing belt (goes around the tree and ladder while climbing) or a tether (attached to back of harness while on the stand).  If these safety recommendations are followed, a mishap should never result in a fall where the hunter hits the ground.  But, had no idea that if you fall and are suspended in the air by tether (and if you can’t climb back into your stand), you can quickly become unconscious and die due to blood pooling in your legs (body harness wraps around legs). 

Note that in the picture, my son’s tether was not attached high enough on tree.  Guess that’s why you should read the instructions and view DVD before assembly! 

Tree stand safety is serious business and the industry has responded with appropriate warnings and education.  Scared the heck out of me.  I have a better understanding and appreciation of the risks faced by my archery and hunt club insurance clients.

 John Sadler

Filed under: Equipment, Outdoors Insurance
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