Just thought this might help some guys out.

1. wear a safety harness when in a tree
2. Buy good gear, and know how to utilize it (not necessarily the most expensive stuff, but quality stuff.) Cheap stuff will leave you hangin.
3. Know how to read maps and aerial photos

If I had to add a 4th it would be TIME, spend time learning about the deer and your area.

Anyone else?

5. Be very well concealed. camofluaged and keep down the scent. And as little movement as possible

6. Have an undetectable entrance and exit route to your stand...this might mean walking extra distance, through a creek, or using a canoe to avoid bumping deer.

7. Wind direction stays more constant on ridgetops or in flat river bottom ground. In areas of steep topography hunting in ravines is risky because the wind will swirl.

8. Know your trees. Be able to differentiate between white oak and red oak trees. Know how to identify other trees such as persimmon, wild pecan, and honey locust...all of these are potential food sources here is SIL.