An apparatus and method for providing a pelvic binder in operative combination with a climbing harness. Thigh loop strap portions of a climbing harness system are detachable from the harness belt portion for separate alternative use as an emergency pelvic binder for a patient suspected or diagnosed with pelvic fracture. The thigh strap portions are provided with features and components to facilitate its use as a functional pelvic binder, while nevertheless allowing it to serve as a component of a climbing harness in alternative, ordinary, use.