A safety strap assembly is used by a climber for ascending, remaining secured at height and descending from a tree or pole. The safety strap assembly includes a tubular strap; an elastic strap; a stiffening member; a string; a coupling; and a finger-pull. Optionally, an oval chain-link is included. The tubular strap fits around a tree. One end of the tubular strap is connected to an elastic strap. The other end is attachable to the climber. The stiffening member fits within the tubular member. A string extending from two holes in the tubular strap permit the stiffening member to be shifted. The coupling at the free end of the elastic strap connects to the tubular strap in a removable slidable engagement. The finger-pull at that connection breaks away if the climber falls enabling the tubular strap to engage the tree and prevent a fall to the ground.