Everything is clicking along. Then the refrigerator breaks, the roof springs a leak, the pipes burst, the car’s transmission quits — or any number of other unforeseen events happen to ruin your day and threaten your bank account.

Such emergencies are bound to arise from time to time. So why wait for disaster to strike? Preempt the panic that comes with these moments by building up an emergency savings fund. It’s not as hard as it seems. With some simple steps, you can create a safety net savings fund in no time.

Bankrate.com offers these tips:

Estimate how much money you might need in such a fund.

“Experts suggest saving enough to cover four to seven months of expenses,” should the disaster be overwhelming, notes Bankrate.

Keep funds easily accessible but apart from your regular checking account.

To avoid the temptation of drawing down the funds for other purchases, consider using a credit union or online bank to make withdrawals slightly less convenient.

Contribute on a regular basis:

Set up automatic transfers and deposits so that the money goes straight into your emergency account and builds over time.

Be strict about the fund’s purpose:

Only use the funds in a bona fide emergency, such as when appliances break, the furnace needs replacing or you’ve been laid off from your job.

Make incremental increases in your deposits:

Start depositing a monthly amount that’s easily within reach. Then, as your financial situation changes and hopefully improves, gradually increase the amount you set aside.