When should a hunter wear a harness while hunting from an elevated stand?

Wearing a harness while hunting from an elevated stand is essential anytime a hunter is above ground level. This practice significantly enhances safety and reduces the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Elevated stands can pose considerable danger due to the height and potential instability, making it crucial for hunters to be secured with a harness.

Using a harness is a proactive measure to ensure that if a hunter does slip or loses balance, they will have a safety mechanism in place to prevent a fall. This is a universal safety guideline and is not contingent upon specific conditions such as wind, being alone, or legal requirements, as those do not fully address the inherent risks of being elevated while hunting. Establishing this habit of wearing a harness regardless of other factors fosters a culture of safety among hunters.