safeguard

ot noun

1. Something that serves as a guard or protection; a defense. Getting a flu shot is a good safeguard against illness.
2. One who, or that which, defends or protects; defence; protection.
3. A safe-conduct or passport, especially in time of war.
4. The monitor lizard.

fe’l verb

1. To protect, to keep safe. She kept a savings to safeguard against debt and emergencies.
2. To escort safely.