In this environment, policymakers would do well to not only be
cautious and forward - looking in managing the level and structure of public
borrowing, but vigilant
about detecting and defusing potential build - ups of vulnerabilities in the private sector as well (and, as our unfortunate experience shows, off - balance sheets as well as on).
Although we reference and mention them throughout this home equity
borrowing guide, it may be helpful to reiterate and expand on why borrowers should be
cautious about using their home equity.