To handle file operations safely in Python, use the `with` statement to ensure files are properly closed after their suite finishes, even if an error occurs. Always check for exceptions during file operations.

Handling file operations safely is crucial in Python to prevent resource leaks and ensure data integrity. The best practice is to use the with statement, which automatically manages file closing for you, even if an exception occurs during file handling. For example, using with open('file.txt', 'r') as file: ensures that the file is properly closed after the block of code is executed, eliminating the need for a separate close statement. Additionally, always check for exceptions when performing file operations, such as using try-except blocks to handle potential IOError or FileNotFoundError exceptions. This allows you to provide informative feedback or fallback logic if an error occurs. When writing to files, consider using the append mode when necessary to avoid overwriting existing data. If you are working with structured data, consider using formats like JSON or CSV with Python's built-in libraries for easy read/write operations. By following these guidelines, you can manage file operations safely and effectively in your Python applications.