Yes, there is something you can do to try and avoid problems. If you have the wires out, you can use a multimeter, set to ohms, and measure the resistance in the wire, from one end to the other. A wire that has suffered damage, but that hasn't melted the insulation, will have much higher resistance than the others. Also, feel the wires for soft spots. A soft, spongey feeling area in the wire means that part is damaged, and must be replaced.
I gotta say, I admire your determination!
Also, I don't know if they are in your car or not, but the horns are usually in the same circuit as the cigarette lighter.
