HUNTINGsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Never use a single-strap harness or a chest harness as your fall arrest system. Sure, they’ll keep you from hitting the ground, but they can also cause severe injuries. It may seem ironic that a lifesaving device could kill you, but it’s true—the restriction on your chest area can make it incredibly difficult to breathe and if you’re left dangling for longer than 20 minutes, you’ll be in a life-threatening situation. Always carry a pocketknife to be able to cut yourself free from a harness and always hunt with a friend who can help you if you fall. Although there are different styles of fall arrest systems out there, the only FAS we recommend is the full body harness.