It is better to take precautions against a thing happening than to have to repair the damage after it has occurred. For example, if a bicycle tyre is badly worn it is better to have a new one fitted than take a chance of a blow-out when you are miles from anywhere.
Related Proverbs
Better an egg today than a hen tomorrow
This means the same as A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Read more →
Better be a fool than a knave
Of the two evils foolishness is the lesser, since it is usually considered something you are born... Read more →