Every November, I take stock of my gear and supplies because nature has a way of reminding us who’s really in charge.
Whether it’s a late-season storm, an unexpected earthquake, or wildfire flare-ups from dry winds, I’ve learned that preparedness isn’t paranoia—it’s peace of mind.
One November a few years ago, a storm cut our power for two days. The roads flooded, the tap water turned brown, and our phones died by the first night. It was a wake-up call. Since then, I’ve fine-tuned my preps to handle any curveball nature throws my way—and today, I’m sharing my personal checklist and the gear I actually trust.
When the lights go out, power means safety lighting, communication, warmth, and information.
During a blackout last fall, my EcoFlow River 2 Max Portable Power Station kept my phone, lights, and radio running all night. It’s compact, reliable, and recharges via solar if needed.
For longer outages, I also keep a BLUETTI EB3A Portable Power Station in the garage. It’s lightweight and strong enough to power my laptop and small appliances.
Where to use: blackouts, camping, off-grid cabins, or wildfires.
Pro Tip: Store both your solar panels and battery in dry, elevated areas to prevent flood damage.
Water scarcity can hit fast especially after storms or quakes. I once went 36 hours relying solely on filtered creek water during a supply disruption. My Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System was a lifesaver.
I also keep a Puroflo Water Filter Set for backup purification and a few 5-gallon BPA-free containers for clean water storage.
How-to: rotate stored water every 6 months and clearly label treated vs. non-treated containers.
A prepper’s pantry should be both practical and portable. I store ReadyWise Emergency Food Buckets they taste surprisingly good and last up to 25 years.
For hot meals when the grid’s down, my Jetboil Flash Cooking System works flawlessly even in gusty wind.
Tip: keep spices, instant coffee, and honey packets; morale food matters more than you think.
I always keep redundancy here. My Goal Zero Torch 500 Flashlight doubles as a lantern and phone charger, while Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way Radios let me check in with my prepper group when cell networks fail.
Tip: store extra rechargeable batteries and label which devices they fit.
November often brings dry winds, and with them, wildfire threats. I keep a First Alert PRO5 Rechargeable Fire Extinguisher in the kitchen and garage.
A Prepared Hero Emergency Fire Blanket also hangs near the stove perfect for small grease fires.
Bonus: Keep a metal bucket of sand or baking soda handy; water can worsen electrical fires.
My Surviveware Comprehensive First Aid Kit has saved me more than once. Add burn gel, antiseptic wipes, and extra gauze during fire season.
For power outages or travel, I pack Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series compact but thorough.
Tip: Take a first-aid course. Gear is only as good as your ability to use it.
Prepping isn’t just about surviving outdoors—it’s about defending your home base.
I installed SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security Sensors and reinforced my door frames with Door Armor MAX Security Kits. For emergencies, a Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool is always in my pocket.
Where to use: urban preppers, apartments, or suburban homes.
Wildfires taught me that air quality can drop fast. I now keep 3M P100 Respirator Masks and Safety Goggles in each vehicle and bug-out bag.
For cleanup after storms or earthquakes, gloves and protective boots are non-negotiable.
Tip: store masks in airtight bags to prevent dust contamination.
Knowledge saves lives. My Kaito Voyager Pro Emergency Radio runs on solar, hand-crank, or batteries. It kept me informed during that blackout when every other device went dark.
Bonus: print emergency numbers and a map in case GPS fails.
The hardest part of any disaster is staying calm.
I keep a small notebook where I jot down action plans, gratitude lists, and quick reflections. It helps center me when chaos hits.
Pair that with a LifeStraw Go Water Bottle and you’ve got hydration and headspace in one go.
Tip: Build habits before the crisis—don’t wait to learn discipline under stress.
Final Thoughts
Prepping isn’t just about surviving—it’s about adapting. November’s unpredictable weather reminds us how fragile comfort really is. Whether you live in a wildfire zone, near a fault line, or in hurricane alley, preparedness is your best defense.
So this month, take a weekend to audit your emergency power, water storage, and safety gear. You’ll sleep better knowing you’re ready for whatever nature decides to throw next.
And if you want gear I trust and personally use, you’ll find it through the Gentleman Pirate Club Partners pre-vetted, quality tools every modern prepper needs.
One Response
Well written and informative. (#116)