Are there lifestyle changes that really make getting blood pressure emergency less likely?

Yes: Exercise, diet, sleep.Checkups with medical provider.

Diet & Exercise: Like most medical conditions, prevention or minimizing symptoms can usually be achieved by tight diet control and regular exercise. If you have hypertension, the best lifestyle changes include a healthy low-sodium diet, regular aerobic exercise 3-5 times per week, and giving yourself time to relax. If you smoke, quit. Aside from diet and exercise, it's the best thing you can do for your health.