Chuck,
I agree many accidents are under reported. This goes for almost all sports including soccer, football, golf (yes golf!).
What is clear, is hunting has improved it's death and serious injury rate dramatically. I believe Hunter Safety Education is a real boon, but also just getting the word out has helped. Question is how much more we can improve.
BTW, I was one of the idiots who fell out of a wooden tree stand (frost on the rungs) many years ago...no safety strap. I now stay out of treestands without a safety harness and keep several extra ones for those that may not have one. Sure hurts to fall from 18 feet! Luckliy I broke nothing and damaged little but my pride.
Jim
