Here's a statistic that often shocks people who don't understand hunting: The number one cause of death and injury in the sport of hunting is falls from treestands. The thing about statistics, though, is that they don't dictate reality (it's the other way around). You don't have to be one of those statistics. With the right equipment, common sense and mindfulness, you can have a safe and successful hunt no matter how high your platform.
This great video from American Hunter may be 10 years old, but the advice contained is and will be valid for hundreds more. It will be relevant for both new hunters and those who've been at it their whole lives. In fact, that latter category is especially encouraged to watch, because the root of most treestand accidents (see what we did there?) is complacency. Getting a little too confident in your equipment and abilities can have terrible consequences ... but avoiding that familiarity-breeds-contempt mental trap will help keep you safe. For more reading, check out this terrific recent article from contributor Mark Fike!
