Sitting on a Time Bomb?

Ive had my '99 Freelander 1.8 XEi for 6 months now. Had a slight problem with the ignition switch (easy fix) but nothing else.

Went through MOT with just a couple of bulbs needed and has never been a problem but... every time I tell someone I have a petrol Freelander I always get the intake of breath and a shake of the head and the words "Head Gasket".

I know there is a problem here but i was wondering, is there anything I can do to prevent this?

regular servicing,flush the cooling system fully and refill, remote thermostat if not already done. electric waterpump, keep an eye on the coolant level. not much more to do really. worry about hgf if and when it happens or just sell the car if it's gonna bother ya that much.

if temp suddenly rises, or suddenly starts playing up or you are concerned about its performance, switch it off, and dont drive it till it is checked out, that way if it is hgf it will be repairable, dont worry about hgf, but be considerate, no thrashing!

cheers chaps