Head Something Off At The Pass

To forestall or intercept something before it becomes a bigger problem.

Examples:

• I'm going to get in early and head them off at the pass.
• Proactive communication can head off a client complaint at the pass.

Origin: From historical Western tales of capturing villains at a mountain pass rather than chasing them directly.

Synonyms: cut off at the pass, nip in the bud, forestall