To prevent headsails, young children or even pets going overboard, it's common to see netting laced between the upper wire and the deck, particularly forward: and remember, bowsprits also need safety netting.
A frrm hand-hold on top of a well braced steering pedestal is useful but the crucial moment arises when you want to step out of the cockpit and go forward. Many boats have strategically placed grab rails to cling on to - sometimes incorporated into the spray hood.

BoatsExplained.com tells us how to avoid it

AtheY set off on a round the world race, a well known skipper told his crew "if
you fall overboard, I'm not coming back." It caused quite a stir at the time, but serves to highlight two important points. The fIrst is to impress on any crew that they have a responsibility to stay aboard. Secondly, it recognises that our attention is best directed to prevention rather than cure.

BOATS like the Contessa 26, with their long keels, can be easier to sail short-handed than lively, lightweight fm-keelers. What's more, though they're not generally quite so handy under power, there are times when a large wetted area can be an advantage.