When sailing, think boom

When sailing, think boom.  The boom can be a lethal instrument, and particularly if you have a boat where it can sweep, at head height or less, across the cockpit. Always be aware of what this can do, encourage your crew to keep their centres of gravity down low and be aware of what can happen to the boom. Be particularly aware of the possibility of an accidental gybe; if you have inexperienced helmsman, rig a preventer just in case; even if the helm is experienced there may be conditions which make a preventer a safe measure.  I understand that there is a yachtsman’s crash helmet now on the market, what next? An hydraulic stair lift to get you up and down the companionway?