If you have to accidentally launch a bead of caulk ten feet across your property, grass is probably the best place is could land.
I think that also happened to Al Borland once when Tim’s assitant bent over in front of him.
And you would have done what? Swallowed?
WHO said it was a “little” caulk!? 
Instead of a wet finger you can sometimes use an ice-cube - stays wet, keeps things cool and has a nice smooth rounded surface.
Like the ice-cube idea.
I smooth the caulk/sealant with my finger dipped in turpentine. That gives a nice finish and makes the excess easy to remove.
Reporting back - Mrs Piper and I re-caulked the bath/shower last weekend. Not to professional standards, but much better than the last time we had to do one of these jobs. Thanks for all the advice!
Oh, and there were no gouts o’high pressured caulk flying about or getting in anyone’s eyes ;), and the caulk gun was always placed down on some paper towels when not in use, so the leakage was always contained.
I asked for “how to” and I also got useful “how not to” tips. Thanks, all! 
Anything wrong with using plumber’s putty? I use plumber’s putty when I do any plumbing work.