I can't emphasize enough...
 

How important it is for you guys to throw an old coat or a blanket or something of the like over the middle of a tow or recovery strap when pulling someone or something out of being stuck!

Most of us "winch guys" have known all along the importance of this, but I'm sure a lot of guys don't know to do this with a recovery strap as well!

Stories abound about serious injuries and even deaths resulting from being hit by a flying metal projectile!

I just read this today:

http://leadercall.com/local/x2238598...freak-accident

Thanks for posting this. It's been a long time since I've used my strap. This is something I once knew, but completely forgot. Given that I have 4WD, I'm bound to find a need for the strap at some point.

thanks for the info glad that guys alright

Ya that is exactly one of the reasons i got my back rack, growing up working on a farm I have seen some crazy freak accidents i always carry a tarp and use that to drape over

another big one is NEVER used the ball as a mount point. That can bust off and become a flying bullet.

even if its rated more than the hitch? i use a 6000lb ball and a 10 000lb pin and my hitch is 5000lb so really the hitch should break before the ball

Talk about insult to injury. The poor guy was "bleeding profusely" so not only does he have a hell of a headache, stitches, a big medical bill and a broken window, but probably a seat soaked in blood too. Ick.

P.S. I think the title ought to be more descriptive like "Winch/tow strap safety: I can't emphasize enough..." So many threads on this board have non-descriptive titles.

And when pulling out a stuck vehicle use a recovery strap with loop ends! when hooks break it's nasty!

so true i have seen so many hooks break working in the marine construction business rigging cranes and moving very heavy things we broke many hooks and very lucky to have all of our bones and lives as many loads were dropped spilled or lost, we did start using looped straps about 3yrs ago, since ive left and gone back to school for a safer career....