RE: Remember guys...Be Safe
I also use a HSS vest whenever I'm in the stand as well. The one thing that I could do to improve however, would be to make sure I am safe even when ascending and descending my tree steps/ladder. As I understand it, most falls occur when climbing up/down or transitioning to/from the stand to the steps/ladder.
Only way I know to accomplish this isto have an additional rope strung the entire length of your steps/ladder to the platform so that you can use a prussiks. I know you can't put a price on safety, but the cost of doing this for 6 to 8 stands has been a bit of a hindrance. I guess if I wanted to fool with it while climbing the tree each and every time, I could use a lineman's belt?!?