Treestand or ladder Injuries

[WCI]

Im looking to see just how common these types of injuries are or how often they do occur. My personal experience is not as bad as some but pretty significant. I was climbing a tree snake type ladder. I attempted to tighten a section of that ladder. I somehow then found myself hanging upsidedown with my lower leg trapped in some branches six feet above me and broken. I did have a harness. I was able to free myself then impacted the ground which broke my left eye socket. Stupid I know but true. Eight months and multiple surgeries later I am presently unable to walk but do get around pretty good with crutches or a little tricycle type device. I have spoken to many hunters that have fallen from heights who have suffered all sorts of injuries. My feet were no higher than 8' from the ground when I started working on the ladder. I only hope my story can prevent additional folks from injury..

[Shake N' Bake]

Wow! Hope you continue to get better!

[BolilloLoco]

I fell approximately 10ft out of a tree several years ago. Landed on my side, with my right arm tucked underneath me. Cracked a rib.

[gigem95]

Fell just 5 feet when the ladder on my bowblind platform broke. Fell on my shoulder and was seeing stars. Thought I broke my arm. Ended up ok but took several months and some PT to get full range of motion back in my shoulder. Couldn't shoot my bow for rest of season without pain. Couldn't lift any weights for a couple of months.

I always wear a harness in a tree stand but never would have thought I could get hurt from only 5 feet. Be careful.

[Sleepy]

I have a lifeline attached at all my tree stands. Being attached at all times is important. Especially when you get your stands on up there (most of mine are 25-30ft.)

A harness is only good if it's attached to something. More injuries occur when going up, down, or transitioning to and from the stand than when actually sitting on stand. Majority are only attached once they reach the top.

Hope for a full recovery!

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bw3IlQ3mVs"]Hunter Safety Systems Lifeline Demonstration - YouTube[/ame]

[Coach]

i've fallen out of two and been very fortunate. prayers for full recovery.

[Gonzo]

every time I hear stories of tree stand falls I think of that horrible one where the rebar went through the girls shoulder or chest. scary scary story
I always wear my harness no matter what height I'm trying to go.

[neskora]

Im looking to see just how common these types of injuries are or how often they do occur. My personal experience is not as bad as some but pretty significant. I was climbing a tree snake type ladder. I attempted to tighten a section of that ladder. I somehow then found myself hanging upsidedown with my lower leg trapped in some branches six feet above me and broken. I did have a harness. I was able to free myself then impacted the ground which broke my left eye socket. Stupid I know but true. Eight months and multiple surgeries later I am presently unable to walk but do get around pretty good with crutches or a little tricycle type device. I have spoken to many hunters that have fallen from heights who have suffered all sorts of injuries. My feet were no higher than 8' from the ground when I started working on the ladder. I only hope my story can prevent additional folks from injury..

Wow. I can guarantee my harness will be more secure than it ever has been this year. Hope you continue to get better