10 Treestand Safety Tips

by
posted on November 17, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
treestandsafety-tips_lead.jpg
Federal Ammunition

Here are 10 simple safety tips that every hunter should keep in mind when utilizing a treestand.

1. Always wear a fall-arrest system/full-body harness meeting Treestand Manufacturer’s Association (TMA) standards when your feet leave the ground.

2. Always use a treestand that meets TMA standards; never use homemade stands or any stand that has been altered.

3. Always read and understand all instructions accompanying harnesses and treestands; practice with them before use.

4. Never exceed recommended weight limits.

5. Always inspect equipment before and after use.

6. Always tell others of your plans. Hunt with a buddy nearby when possible.

7. Always carry some combination of emergency signal devices on your person: whistle, radio, flare, cell phone.

8. Always select the proper tree for use with your treestand.

9. Always use a haul line to pull up gear; never climb without two free hands.

10. Never hurry.

For more tips, go to tmastands.com.

Latest

LEDE Roundup
LEDE Roundup

Hot from SHOT: Best Whitetail Gear for 2026

With the new year comes a wave of newly released hunting gear aimed at giving hunters the edge afield. From cozier tree stands, easy-to-pack bags, feed, blinds, and more, manufacturers have sought every imaginable way to help hunters become more successful on their hunts. Read on as we take a closer look at what caught our eye.

AH Hunts: Late Season Alberta Geese Pt. 2

With some birds on the ground, Jon and Brad take a second to discuss the size of late-season Alberta honkers, before diving into the guns that brought them down. Check out part 2 of Senior Executive Editor Jon Draper and American Hunter contributor Brad Fenson's late-season Alberta honker hunt here.

Hardware Review: Hornady Backcountry Defense

A casual hike, a quick trip to grab firewood or a morning spent chasing trout all carry the potential of encountering a furry threat that might want to remind you that you are no longer at the top of the hierarchy.

Ruger Announces American Rifle Generation II Scout Models

Ruger ups the ante in 2026, delivering a newly crafted Scout rifle under its increasingly popular American Gen II line.

New for 2026: Hawke Optics Vantage IR 1-4x20mm in Mossy Oak Bottomland

Purpose-built to give turkey hunters fast target acquisition, precise shot placement and a camo pattern that blends seamlessly into the Spring woods, Hawke's latest LVPO is designed to impress.

Interior Department Increases Hunting Opportunities on Public Lands

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum has issued a secretarial order aimed at greatly expanding hunting and fishing on publicly managed lands.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.