What safety precaution should you take when using a self-climbing stand?

Attaching your Fall Arrest System (FAS) or Full Body Harness (FBH) to the tree before leaving the ground is a crucial safety precaution when using a self-climbing stand. This practice ensures that you are secured to the tree right from the start of your climb, reducing the risk of falling during the ascent or descent. If you were to slip or lose your grip while climbing, the tether would help to prevent a potentially serious fall.

Climbing safely involves embracing all possible measures to protect yourself, and securing your harness before you even begin your ascent is a fundamental step in that process. Proper use of safety equipment significantly enhances your overall stability and safety while hunting from a stand.

The other options do not address essential safety protocols. For instance, using only one hand while climbing can compromise your balance and grip, while not testing your surroundings can lead to accidents due to unseen obstacles or hazards. Moreover, selecting a tree with thick branches does not inherently ensure safety, as the stand's design and your secure harness attachment are more critical to preventing falls.