Ready for a Rigging Failure

[Hull#753]

Thanks to AQUAVITE & SAND SAVE for detailing the most recent cost of replacing their standing rigging.
 
 And now that I know I'll be sailing with my '88's original standing rigging for the rest of this season, can anyone tell me what to expect if it does fail while under sail?  How catastrophic can it potentially get?  Should I keep the bolt cutters with me in the cockpit?  Any hardened rules about what to do, or what point of sail to take in relation to that part of the standing rigging that's failed?  For instance, common sense would tell me to quickly sail to the point that takes the strain off the afflicted (as in missing) component, right?  Or do I drop the sails & head home?  Know of any good books on this subject?
 
 Thanks,
 
 John