Like if SHTF and you and your family are 200 miles from home.
Or an ice storm shuts down power to half the eastern seaboard while you are on the road or away from home. Shit happens.
550 cord is a good call.
Mountain, I have the Life Straws but have not tested them in the wild. Are there better for a decent price? Warmth & water are the top two priorities short term. Everything else is long term.