yes, thickntired, and living alone, I totally get what you mean. When I first left my exH I was terrified and worried about everything...then of course, was told I was a 'negative nelly'. I finally decided...no, freakin, I'm not!! I'm making sure I'm PREPARED!!! lol

So for the flat tires...make sure you have a cell and if you don't have car insurance with roadside assistance, there are company's (AAA is one) that you can get without buying the insurance.

Depending on where you live, renters insurance is a must. It's not that expensive...insure only the things that would be difficult to replace (computers, other electronics etc.)....other things can be purchased on the cheap from whatever thrift stores are in your area.

Pets...try for an apt with a pet policy...if you don't have a pet (and like them) get one. They do wonders for lonliness prevention. I recommend getting a rescue. Save two lives--yours, and theirs. They are also wonderful 'early warning systems' dogs, OR cats.

When you have your car serviced, (and if you're not overly shy) strike up a conversation with the mechanic...even if it's based on silly questions. It is always good to know a mechanic, plummer etc. This is a form of networking which can be very helpful, in a pinch. Anywhere you go, if you meet a 'service provider'...talk to them..ask advice etc, and get their business cards or numbers.

If in an apt...learn your neighbors. You don't have to be overly friendly (I sure the hell am not) but at least learn their names and let them know yours. Important in the event you have an issue. (When I got layed off, my car didn't move from the parking lot for at least a week. My downstairs neighbor--whom I'd only met a month before, once--trecked up the stairs and knocked on my door, saying he was worried as he hadn't seen me. It is an unspoken rule we both check to see car movement now...)

Pay attention to your surroundings...I cannot stress that enough. No matter where you are. You don't have to be paranoid about it...just log things in the back of your mind. It can be interesting. I can also help you out if you need it.

I'm sure there is more but these are the things off the top of my head that have helped me feel more comfortable being on my own. I hope they help you.

*hugs*