Newfoundland and Labrador Hunter Education Program

If You Fall

If you fall from a treestand and you are properly using a FAS/FBH, you have two options. The first option is to recover from the fall by getting yourself back into the treestand. How you do this will depend on the type of stand you are using. Try your best to get yourself back into the stand safely.

If you cannot recover from the fall yourself, the second option is to be rescued. You should always carry an emergency signal device on your person at all times in case of emergency. Emergency Signal Devices can be any of the following:

• Two-Way Radio
• Cell phone
• Personal locator device
• Whistle
• Signal Flare

Optimally, you should hunt with a buddy so they can help you in an emergency situation. If you are hunting alone and need to be rescued, someone will need to know where you are and how to find you. Before you go into the woods, you should always let others know your exact hunting location, where your treestand is located, when you plan to return, and who is with you.

While you are waiting to be rescued, you may experience suspension trauma while hanging in your FAS/FBH. This is caused by blood pooling in the legs. To seek suspension relief you can exercise your legs by pushing against the tree or doing any other form of continuous motion. You should also carry a suspension relief device on your person and it should always be readily accessible while using a harness. The relief device will help maintain circulation in the legs.