For those that have ever dropped the platform portion of their stand, Summit tells us to make sure and tie the climber and platform together before climbing. I have a small rope tied to my platform with the other tied to a plastic covered metal hook. The hook is bent such that it kinda snaps over the cross brace at the back of the sit and climb section. Rope length is only a little longer than my normal sit and climb distance. This way the platform can never fall farther than I can reach will sitting on the climber. And yes, always always stay attached to the tree until safely on the ground.

I've used my current Summit for 3 years with the same type of locking system. No problems whatsoever.