No matter how prepared we are for emergencies, unplanned events always seem to pop up out of nowhere, causing us huge amounts of unnecessary stress.
We all know that in the case of a medical emergency or a situation of imminent danger, we should call 911.
But do you know whom to call if your pipes burst in the winter? Or if your pet runs away?
I definitely didn't. When my heat breaks in the winter, whom should I call? When I accidentally lock my keys in my car, what do I do? None of these situations seem like real emergencies until they happen.
Next time your car breaks down on the side of the road, or your pet chews up a bleach bottle, you'll be so thankful you have these numbers saved into the speed dial on your phone.
It might seem like having an emergency contact list is a waste of time when you can just look up phone numbers on your smart phone, but when time is of the essence, you'll be happy you can just press one button.
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Phone Number #1: In Case Of Emergency
It's important to label one of your speed dial numbers with the exact words "In Case of Emergency," or "ICE."
If anything happens to you that renders you incapable of using your phone, a police officer, an EMT, or a stranger will know whom to call for you just by glancing at your phone.
For example, in your contact list, change your daughter's name to "Jane Smith ICE" or "In Case of Emergency: Jane Smith."
Phone Number #2: Animal Control
You may think animal control is only helpful when you need to get a bat out of your attic or a raccoon out of your yard, but animal control is actually useful for so many other things as well.
They can help if you find a wounded animal on the side of the road, if a lost pet wanders into your yard, or even if your own beloved pet goes missing.
Phone Number #3: Poison Control
Although you may not have ever needed to call poison control in the past, there's a good chance that with kids and pets around you'll want to keep this number handy just in case.
If your pet or child swallows something potentially harmful, it's hugely important to be able to quickly call poison control to find out what the next step is.
Additionally, Woman's Day explains that you can also use poison control as a resource for learning about recalled food items.
The poison control phone number is 800-222-1222.
Phone Number #4: Roadside Assistance
There's nothing worse than driving down the highway only to realize that your car is slowing down, even though you're still stepping on the gas.
You pull over to find that you can't fix the problem and you're stranded on the side of the road.
During a situation like this, the first person you should call is your roadside assistance company.
They can help you fix a flat tire, refill on gas, or even get a tow truck out to your location.
Phone Number #5: A Trusted Neighbor
You might not think it's that important to have a neighbor's phone number, but you never know when that number could come in handy.
From borrowing a cup of sugar to checking on your pets when you're out of town, having a trusted neighbor's phone number can put your mind at ease in many situations.
Phone Number #6: Your Utility Company
During a power outage or a suspected gas leak, you might immediately think to call 911.
And although first responders can generally help in these situations, your utility company is better equipped to handle the situation quickly and effectively.
Phone Number #7: A Locksmith
If you've ever locked yourself out of the house or your car, you know how stressful it can be.
Eliminate the stress by having a trusted locksmith's number on hand.
Phone Number #8: Your Child's/Grandchild's School
If your child or grandchild has a cell phone, you of course have their number on hand — but what about the school's number?
In the event of an emergency, a schedule change, or a health concern, you don't want to go digging through papers to find the right number for the school.
Phone Number #9: Veterinarian And Animal Poison Control
Keeping your personal vet's phone number on speed dial is good for strange situations that may come up (like if your dog eats your sock or your cat hasn't peed in three days).
But it's also important to know the animal poison control number if ever your pet gets into your cleaning supplies.
The animal poison control phone number is 888-426-4435.
Phone Number #10: Car Insurance Claims
After handling any medical issues caused by a car accident, the next call you make should be to your car insurance company.
Explaining the situation when it's fresh in your mind will help you not forget important details, explains Woman's Day.
Are there any other phone numbers you think everyone should have on speed dial? Let us know in the comments below!
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