Do not be the spreader of gossip and rumors. Many flame wars can be prevented by following this advice. If you are on a channel and you have been asked to change the topic of discussion or to curb your behavior, do not argue, just abide by the operator's wishes. They are trying to maintain order in their channel. If you do not like the way the channel is run, find another channel or create your own.
People make mistakes.
Understand that and let them slip by, everyone will be the better off if you do.