We have all heard the saying it is better to be safe than sorry. Indeed, this makes sense and parents love to recite this to their kids, as it makes them feel important and full of wisdom. Lucky for us we had such parents, coaches and teachers who always recited this saying to us. Do you know why? Because such thinking prepares us for the unfortunate and potential eventualities, which could cause us great harm if we do not heed such warnings.

One of the things I most remember when I was in the Civil Air Patrol was something an FAA Examiner once told me. He said never fly over mountain ranges at night in a single engine aircraft unless you are positive you can glide to one side or the other if the engine quits. Having helped in search and rescues for downed aircraft as a young man, I remember a few crash sites and accidents, which I wish I had not seen. But it wakes you up to the realities of life and makes you respect safety.

Back up is important and as Arthur C. Clarke explained with fictitious race of aliens