September Is National Preparedness Month: What To Do Now (So You’re Ready Later)

Power - by Joe Weber - updated on 9/5/2025

When a storm or outage hits, the last thing you want is to be hunting for flashlights or guessing whether your backup power will last. That's exactly why September is recognized as National Preparedness Month — a nationwide effort led by FEMA and Ready.gov   to encourage families, businesses, and communities to plan before disasters strike. It's the perfect reminder to prep your home, vehicle, and business now, rather than scrambling later.

At Batteries Plus, we've got the portable power, lighting, and replacement batteries that keep you connected when it matters most.

Why Prepare In September?

September was chosen as National Preparedness Month because it marks the peak of hurricane season in the U.S. and falls right before fall and winter storms begin. It's a time when severe weather risks overlap, making it the perfect annual reminder to review your emergency plans and update your supplies. A little planning now reduces stress later, helps you respond faster, and makes recovery easier. Start small with a checklist, then build out what you need for 72 hours of self-sufficiency.

Home Emergency Kit Essentials

Lighting

• LED flashlights and lanterns for each room
• Headlamps for hands‑free tasks
• Long‑life alkaline and lithium batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V) stored in a cool, dry place

Power & Charging

• High‑capacity power banks for phones and tablets
• Portable power stations to run CPAPs, Wi‑Fi routers, small appliances, and medical devices
• Battery maintainers to keep stored vehicle or generator batteries ready to go

Communication & Safety

• NOAA weather radio (with battery or hand‑crank power)
• Smoke and CO detector batteries are replaced on a schedule
• Surge protectors and UPS units for desktops, modems, and home offices

Comfort & Basics

• First aid kit, shelf‑stable food, water, blankets
• Backup light bulbs and specialty batteries for remotes, thermostats, and security devices

Power Banks: Everyday Backup You Can Carry Anywhere

When the power goes out, keeping your phone charged is critical for staying connected, checking weather alerts, and contacting loved ones. Power banks are compact, rechargeable batteries that fit easily in a pocket, purse, or go-bag, making them a must-have for every emergency kit.

Power Bank Benefits

• Portable Size: Small enough to carry daily, yet powerful enough to keep your phone alive during extended outages.
• Device Versatility: Charge phones, tablets, Bluetooth speakers, smartwatches, and even some laptops, depending on capacity and ports.
• Quick Recharge: Many offer fast-charging technology for shorter downtime between charges.
• Variety of Capacities: From slim models for a single phone charge to high-capacity banks that can recharge devices multiple times.
• Easy Readiness: Top off monthly or after each use — most models hold a charge for weeks.

Choosing the Right Power Bank

• mAh (Capacity): A 10,000 mAh power bank typically charges most smartphones 2–3 times. Larger options (20,000+ mAh) can handle tablets or multiple devices.
• Ports & Outputs: Look for multiple USB or USB-C ports to charge more than one device at once.
• Durability: Rugged or water-resistant models are excellent for camping, outdoor work, or storm kits.
• Everyday Use: Keep one in your bag or vehicle so you always have backup power, even when you're away from home.

Power Stations: Indoor-Safe Backup Power

Lithium power stations are a clean, quiet alternative to gas generators. Because they're rechargeable and safe to use indoors, they're perfect for apartments, condos, and anyone who wants peace of mind without the noise or fumes.

Power Station Benefits

• Safe & Quiet: No fuel, no exhaust — safe to use in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices.
• Versatile Charging: Equipped with AC outlets, USB ports, and 12V sockets for phones, laptops, CPAP machines, routers, and even small appliances.
• Recharge Options: Plug into the wall, use your vehicle's 12V port, or pair with solar panels for renewable backup power.
• Pass-Through Charging: Many models let you power devices while the station itself is charging.
• Portable Design: Lighter and easier to transport than traditional generators, making them great for camping, tailgating, and road trips.

At Batteries Plus, we even carry our own line of X2Power lithium power stations, available in multiple sizes to keep everything from small devices to essential home equipment running during an outage.

Generators: Reliable Backup Power for Outages

When the lights go out, a generator can keep your home or business running smoothly. Pair it with a transfer switch or extension cords rated for generator use to power essentials like refrigerators, sump pumps, medical equipment, and Wi-Fi routers.

Generator Tips

• Fuel & Maintenance: Keep fuel fresh and run your generator monthly to ensure it's ready when you need it.
• Battery Care: Many generators rely on a starter battery — keep it charged with a maintainer to avoid surprises.
• Safety: Always operate generators outdoors in a well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Accessories: Stock up on heavy-duty extension cords, surge protectors, and extra fuel storage containers.

Vehicle Readiness (Everyday + Evacuations)

In an emergency, your car isn't just transportation — it's your lifeline. Whether you need to evacuate ahead of a storm, drive to a safe location, or simply get to the store for essentials, your vehicle has to start and keep running. A dead battery or a faulty alternator can slow you down at the worst possible moment.

Smart Steps to Stay Road-Ready

• Jump Starter & Toolkit: A compact jump starter or jumper cables means you won't be stranded waiting for help.
• Visibility & Safety Gear: Reflective triangles, flashlights, and a stocked first aid kit keep you protected on the roadside.
• Charged & Connected: Car chargers and cables ensure your phone stays powered for navigation and emergency updates.
• Battery Confidence: Test your car battery before storm season. Many Batteries Plus stores offer free testing and on-the-spot installation, so you know your vehicle will fire up when you need it most.

The Batteries Plus Roadside Emergency Kit also combines many of these essentials into one handy case, giving you peace of mind that you're ready to go at a moment's notice.

Business Continuity Checklist

If you own or manage a business, you know that downtime is expensive. Prep now to keep teams safe and operations moving.

• Power: UPS systems for critical workstations and network gear; power stations for mobile teams and field ops
• Lighting: Emergency lighting, exit signs, and reliable flashlights for every department
• Communications: Dedicated power for hotspots, two‑way radios, and scanners
• Inventory: Spare batteries for scanners, badge readers, thermostats, security systems
• Maintenance: Battery rotation schedule and quarterly device testing
• Partnership: Join the thousands of companies with a Batteries Plus Business Account for contracted pricing, local delivery options, and expert guidance

Don't Forget Special Considerations

Medical & Mobility Needs

Back up power for CPAPs, powered wheelchairs, scooters, lift chairs, and medical monitors. Keep spare batteries for hearing aids, glucose meters, and thermometers.

Pets

Travel crates, leashes, food, water, and ID tags. Include a small flashlight in the pet kit.

Seasonal Risks

Hurricanes, wildfires, ice storms, and tornadoes demand different plans. Adjust your kit for local threats.

Test, Rotate, Recycle

Staying prepared isn't just about building a kit — it's about keeping it ready to work when you need it. A quick maintenance routine ensures your gear won't fail in the middle of an emergency.

• Test flashlights and radios monthly
• Top off power banks and power stations
• Rotate alkaline batteries and mark dates
• Recycle used batteries and bulbs at Batteries Plus*
  *Fees may apply for certain items. Contact your local store for details.

Quick 72‑Hour Kit Builder (Copy & Check Off)

Building a kit doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start with the basics below, and you'll have everything you need to keep your household safe, comfortable, and connected for at least three days.

•   2–3 LED flashlights + headlamp
•   Lantern for the common area
•   Assorted AA/AAA/C/D/9V batteries
•   Weather radio
•   Power bank + charging cables
•   Portable power station (as needed)
•   First aid kit, medications, and personal documents
•   Food, water, blankets, hygiene supplies
•   Multi-tool, duct tape, matches/lighter
•   Pet supplies (if applicable)

Visit Batteries Plus For Expert Emergency Prep

From flashlights and lanterns to power banks, power stations, UPS units, and specialty batteries, we're the Experts in Charge. Many of our stores and associates live and work in severe–weather–prone areas, so we don't just sell emergency supplies — we understand what it takes to be prepared. Stop in to your local Batteries Plus for recommendations tailored to your home or business, plus recycling options that make clean-up easy.

FAQs About Emergency Preparedness

Q: How much backup power do I need for an outage?

A: List the devices you must run, note their wattage, and multiply by the hours you want to power them. Our team can help you size a power station or battery setup that fits your plan.

Q: How often should I replace batteries in my emergency kit?

A: Check monthly, replace as they're used, and rotate stock at least once a year. Store spares in original packaging in a cool, dry place.

Q: Can I use a power station indoors?

A: Yes. Lithium power stations are safe to use indoors and are a good, quiet option during outages. Follow the manufacturer's ventilation and charging guidelines.

Q: What's the difference between a UPS and a power station?

A: A UPS provides automatic backup for electronics and can prevent data loss during brief outages. A power station is a portable battery with outlets and USB ports designed for longer‑term or mobile use.

Q: Do you recycle old batteries and bulbs?

A: Most stores accept many common battery types and light bulbs for recycling. Fees may apply based on the item and quantity. Check with your local store for details.

Q: How do I keep my car battery ready if I drive less?

A: Use a battery maintainer to prevent discharge and sulfation. It's a simple way to avoid a no‑start when you need to leave quickly.

Q: Can businesses get help with large orders across multiple locations?

A: Yes. A Batteries Plus Business Account offers dedicated support, competitive pricing, and streamlined ordering for multi‑site operations.