I agree with what HuskStihl said, except I keep my eye on the back cut, I know the tree is going when it starts to open up.
I always have an escape route cleared, diagonally in back if possible.
On windy days, or if you are close to power lines, roads or houses I would rather be safe than sorry and rope them. I really like my Maasdam rope puller. The wind can easily take a tree with a slight lean and put it in the other direction. I don't like to climb, I cheat and use a ladder, but it works.
Always be mindful of obstructions from other trees. I know someone who had a lot of experience who is paralyzed for life because a dead Elm tree branch from another tree came down on him.
I've also learned from this site that leaving my hinges too thick is not the safest practice either, so I've worked on addressing that issue. That said don't cut too fast and wipe your hing out or you will loose control the the direction of the drop (your ported 461 will do that too easy, be careful).
Always be careful with dead trees, especially Ash. Try to determine if the tree is solid where you plan to cut in advance. I've seen trees 2' in diameter fall after you just cut into them a few inches.
As Ryan said, always respect it and be careful. Never take it for granted, not every tree will be the same. Always wear a helmet when felling.