Smart women know how to handle just about anything with an item that fits in a purse—from life’s daily headaches to dangerous emergencies. Here’s what no woman should leave her house without.

1. First Aid Kit

Life comes with its fair share of cuts and bruises, and sometimes you need more than Band-Aids. Compact first aid kits complete with moleskin bandages, gauze, tweezers, and antibiotic ointment are the perfect solution.

2. Phone Number List

Many people no longer commit phone numbers to memory because they’re saved in our cellphones. But what if you lose your phone or a mugger steals it? Keep a handwritten list of numbers for family members, employers, schools, doctors, locksmiths, and anyone else you might need in a pinch.

3. Multi-purpose Tool

Swiss army knives and other multi-purpose tools do a lot more than open envelopes and file nails! You never know when pliers, wire cutters, or a screwdriver could be just what you need on a road trip or simply to get you out of a jam in everyday life. In the worst-case scenario of a kidnapping or mugging, your multi-purpose tool might even save your life.

4. Flashlight

Stock up on keychain flashlights or compact flashlights (often sold with camping supplies). Despite their small size, they can be invaluable when you need to signal for help or stay safe during a power outage.

5. Personal Alarm

When you find yourself facing a real emergency, you need to sound an alarm. Personal alarms create loud, high-pitch noises and emit strobe lights to get attention. If you’re being attacked, blowing a whistle or screaming may not be options. Consider a personal alarm (or a handy keychain version) for safety.

6. Pepper Spray

Pepper sprays offer real physical protection against attackers. Even showing it to your assailant may cause him or her to run away. A handful of states have restrictions on pepper spray, but most states allow it up to the standard 10 percent potency.

7. Apps to Monitor Home Security

There’s an app for everything these days, including home security. Connect your smartphone or tablet device to a home security camera system via app so you can get alerts, check in on things at home, and contact authorities at a moment’s notice.

If you prefer to avoid carrying too many things in your purse, look for smaller, lightweight versions of these items. Many safety and self-defense products are available in sizes meant for key chains and purse pockets.

Speaking of pockets, remember to keep your purse well-organized. In the event of an emergency, you’ll need to find items quickly, so use organizing inserts or stick with purses that have interior pockets.

If you carry all of the items listed above, you can relax and feel confident knowing that if you run into any trouble, something in your purse should help.