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

Photo 03 Ammo On Buffalo
Photo 03 Ammo On Buffalo

Behind the Bullet: .450/400 3” Nitro Express

Among the lot of Nitro Express cartridges—a term coined by James Purdey to compare the power of these cartridges to a locomotive and newly loaded with smokeless powder—the .450/400 3” N.E. represents one the best blends of hunting power and ease of shooting. Curious? Read on, as Phil Massaro goes in-depth on this classic, though esoteric, favorite.

New for 2026: Swhacker #307 Mechanical 2-Blade Broadhead

Swhacker Broadheads has launched its #307 100-grain Mechanical 2-Blade Broadhead. This latest addition to Swhacker's lineup promises precision engineering with reliable deployment, coupled with accuracy and devastating field performance.

Keys to the Eastern Turkey Hunt

A turkey is a turkey regardless of subspecies, sure, but best hunting tactics often vary depending on geographical location due to the birds’ varying behavior. Translated, killing turkeys back East is different than killing them out West. Check out some Eastern-specific tips below, and stay tuned for a follow-up targeted at our Western readers.

Montana and Utah Celebrating 125th Anniversaries

Two 125th Anniversaries are occurring this year, the first being for the entire Montana FWP, and the second being a key piece of property in the history of the Utah DWR.

First Look: Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Green Dot

Purpose-built for turkey hunting and wingshooting, the Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Red Dot line now adds a green reticle option for those who prefer it in certain lighting and shooting conditions.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Series

Blocker Outdoors' Finisher Series is a one stop shop for turkey hunters looking to streamline their clothing and gear in the field. Read on for some of the top pieces in this lineup, designed to keep hunters cool and comfortable, while maintaining easy access to essentials.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.