Anyone have any tips to share to reduce the chance of getting caught out by a partner?
Seemples; don't have a partner!
I didn't start punting till the best part of 2 years had elapsed since the now long-deceased Mrs H A had pissed off with "my successor". I vowed then that, as I'd never enjoyed myself so much in a lo-o-ng time, I'd stop punting if ever I acquired another partner.
18 years on, old age and infirmity have now ensured that if I
do ever acquire another partner, her duties will mainly consist of pushing my wheelchair around!