Hi Rachel, google "dryer vent box". It helps a little, but we also built the cabinets allowing for adequate depth. I do not recall if we installed a pan under this one or not. Often if we do, it is a 3 sided pan to kick water out in front where it can be seen. if you truly have a disaster, a pan will not keep up with draining. if it is a slow leak, pushing it out in front helps you see it rather than not know about it.

what are the dimensions of this room?

Where are you hiding the water valves?

They are behind the unit but there is a second set of valves up in the cupboard above for easy access to shut of for "vacation mode". We no longer do this and instead use Flood Stop valves. These sense water leaks and will shut off the valve automatically. It works if you are home or gone. Often leaks or floods occur while you are at home.