In the majority of treestand accidents, what safety equipment were hunters not using?

Hunters often overlook the importance of using a fall restraint system, which is specifically designed to prevent falls from treestands. A fall restraint system includes components such as harnesses, lanyards, and straps that help secure the hunter while in the treestand. Failure to use this equipment significantly increases the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a fall.

While safety harnesses are indeed a crucial element of fall prevention, the term "fall restraint system" encompasses a wider array of equipment designed to keep a hunter safe and secure in a treestand. It is essential for hunters to equip themselves with comprehensive safety systems that include not just the harness, but also additional gear that can prevent dangerous falls. Proper climbing gear and helmets serve as important safety measures but are not specifically designed to prevent falls from height in the same way that a fall restraint system is. Therefore, the lack of a comprehensive fall restraint system is a common thread in treestand accidents, highlighting its critical importance for hunter safety.