Had a friend fall out of a tree stand today because of old weathered straps holding the stand up. Both straps snapped and he fell 25 feet.

He was not wearing a safety harness. He broke 4 bones in his back, but was still able to walk away. It was a miracle he wasn't paralyzed or killed. He will be in a back brace for 6 weeks and was told he will heal. He was lucky AND he knew better. We have hung a ton of stands together.

1. ALWAYS wear a harness - even when trimming.
2. Check your straps, nuts/bolts, and cables BEFORE getting in the stand.
3. Invest in lifelines. There is no reason these days to fall.