The Boy Scout motto says it all: Be Prepared. They know what the rest of us slowly learn throughout our life: shit happens. You may not be able to predict what life is going to throw at you, but you can prepare.

Money emergencies are no different. The next demand on your bank account could be for a car that won’t start, a house that won’t heat, or a kid whose teeth suddenly won’t grow straight.   Avoidance of these expenses is the best strategy. Regular service on your vehicle and maintenance in your home will go a long way towards eliminating these financial surprises. But sometimes, circumstances are out of our control, and we still have to pay up. Here are three strategies to help you prepare for the next unwelcome surprise.