RE: TREE STANDS - Let's hear your safety tips.
Use a Treehopper belt when hanging stands! That's the best product I've ever bought - reduces set-up times, noise, and makes me feel 100% more secure while hanging a stand.
Other than that - get in-shape before season. I think too many guys go into the woods and are at heights they shouldn't be at. If you can't do a pull-up, how would you expect to get off the harness if you were stranded? The fall is only the beginning of you're problems! IMO - Fitness probably has more to do with accidents than any other factor!
Also, use a good stand. It is you're life you're putting on the thing!