Fall-Arrest Systems (FASs)

In situations when you are hunting from an elevated position, and not using a hunting saddle, a fall-arrest system (FAS) manufactured to industry standards should be used. Never use single-strap belts and chest harnesses—they can be deadly. Before hunting, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use of the FAS and follow all safety guidelines. When saddle hunting, the hunter must use a lineman belt when ascending and descending the tree, and he or she must always have the tree tether properly secured before stepping onto the platform.

Most elevated hunting falls occur when a hunter is climbing up or down a tree. A properly fitted FAS that includes a full-body harness should be used when a hunter’s feet are off the ground when using a tree stand, climbing stand, or hang-on stand. This requirement includes all steps during tree climbing, elevated hunting system installation, and hunting.