Out on the deep blue you cannot count on ANYONE to help you in ANY situation.
You are your own
mechanic, doctor, plumber, electrician, dentist, fireman, diplomat, lawyer, and armed forces.
I know that many believe that carrying firearms is a recipe for distaster, and not everyone is prepared to defend themselves appropriately, both mentaly and physicaly.
But if you are determined to voyage beyond the
safety of your hailing port, then you need to face the possibility of encountering those who will do you harm.
As for "Don't sail in Harms' way."...
good luck with that.
Maybe 20 years ago you could have gotten away with that, but most regions of the world that are beyond
Europe, North America, Austrailia and scant few places besides are free from "Harms' way".
Preparation and vigilance are the only ways to keep yourself safe.