Glad all turned out OK - this time. You'll hunt another day.

I too was asking myself, "Self. No mention of a safety harness?" Absolutely most injuries to guys when afield are caused by themselves. Not watching where they step, not checking stands for wear, shooting themselves, not wearing fall protection, etc. In the field - you are your worst enemy. The next worse enemy? Your hunting buddies.

The very 1st thing I cover and drill into my students heads when I do the 1st aid and survivial in hunter safety ed classes is.......

HAVE A PLAN!

Try to not hunt alone but if you do your plan is even more essential.

Most important part of your plan is having someone know where you're going, which direction you're heading, what area you'll be inand when you'll be back.

That way if something should happen, folks will know and be able to get looking for you and/or sending help.

Cell phone? Everyone has had either a dead battery or no coverage at one time or another. I always recommend a couple spare batteries for all batt powered devices folks might rely on. (i.e. phone, radios, flashlight, GPS, elec socks, etc.)

Another thing is if you should say fall and break your back and try to call in help, what are the chances the rescue team knows where Uncle Jerry's farm is? Let alone know where the big red oak on Uncle Jerry's farm is?

Be safe -have a plan.