Just because you’re closer to the ground doesn’t mean bouldering is safer than other types of climbing.

Being proactive with risk assessment means thinking ahead. Before hopping on the problem, walk around the entire boulder. Look for the downclimb and what that might involve. Easy downclimbs will have obvious holds and a (hopefully) flat landing. Some downclimbs may require dropping off a steep overhang or tick-tacking down an insecure slab. Decide if you need a spot or an additional crashpad to land on as you’re descending.

And, in case of an emergency, know where the nearest rel...