September 2024 Top 10 Prepper Items

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EMERGENCY PREP

9/10/20243 min read

10 Fall Prepper Items to Have in September: Essential Gear for Preparedness

As the crisp days of September roll in, it's the perfect time for preppers to review and restock their supplies. Fall brings unique challenges, such as cooler weather, shorter days, and potential natural disasters like hurricanes and early snowstorms. Whether you're prepping for a disaster or ensuring you're ready for the colder months, here are 10 essential items every prepper should have in September:

1. Long-Term Food Storage

As temperatures drop, the growing season comes to an end, making it essential to have a stockpile of non-perishable food. Consider investing in:

Freeze-dried meals
Canned vegetables, fruits, and meats
Rice, beans, and grains
Dried fruits and nuts
Vacuum-sealed jerky and Pemmican for high-protein, shelf-stable options

Rotate these supplies to keep them fresh, ensuring you have enough to sustain you and your family for several months if needed.

2. Water Filtration System

Fall often brings heavy rains and flooding, which can contaminate water supplies. Ensure you have a reliable water filtration system, such as:

Portable water filters like the LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini
Gravity-based filtration systems for larger quantities
Water purification tablets or drops
Sturdy containers for storing filtered water

Having clean water is essential for drinking, cooking, and sanitation in an emergency.

3. Warm Clothing and Blankets

As the weather cools, hypothermia becomes a concern, even in early fall. Stock up on:

Thermal clothing, including base layers, gloves, and hats
Wool blankets and sleeping bags rated for colder temperatures
Mylar emergency blankets for your bug-out bag

Layers of warm clothing can help regulate body temperature and ensure comfort in chilly conditions.

4. Emergency Heat Source

In case of power outages, it's important to have alternative ways to stay warm. Consider these heating options:

Portable propane heaters, like the Mr. Heater Buddy (ensure proper ventilation)
Fire-starting supplies (waterproof matches, fire starters, lighters)
A wood stove or fireplace (and the tools to cut, store, and transport wood)
Extra fuel for generators and heating devices

These items will keep your living space warm if conventional heating systems fail.

5. First-Aid and Medical Supplies

Fall is a prime time for seasonal illnesses like the flu, making it important to update your medical kits. Be sure to include:

Basic first-aid items (bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze)
Cold and flu medications, pain relievers, and vitamins
Prescription medications in bulk if possible
Extra masks, hand sanitizer, and hygiene supplies

Having an updated first-aid kit can make all the difference when dealing with illness or injury during an emergency.

6. Hunting and Fishing Gear

As summer fades, September is an excellent time to prepare for hunting and fishing seasons. Stock up on:

Hunting gear (rifles, bows, ammunition, and appropriate licenses)
Fishing rods, lines, and tackle
Traps or snares for small game
Preservation methods for game meat, such as smoking or jerky preparation

Wild game and fish are excellent sources of fresh food when grocery stores are unavailable.

7. Solar-Powered Lights and Chargers

Shorter days mean more reliance on lighting and power. Prepare for outages by investing in:

Solar-powered lanterns and flashlights
Solar battery chargers for phones, radios, and small devices
Rechargeable batteries compatible with solar charging systems
LED headlamps for hands-free lighting

Solar-powered solutions are invaluable for keeping devices charged and lighting functional during power interruptions.

8. Garden Harvesting and Seed Storage

For those who grow their own food, September is the time to finish harvesting and prepare for the next planting season. Key items include:

Gardening tools for late harvests (pruners, shears, gloves)
Seed storage containers for next year's crops
Canning jars, lids, and pressure canners for preserving fall produce
Dehydrators for drying herbs, fruits, and vegetables

Properly preserving and storing your garden's bounty will provide additional food security through the colder months.

9. Shelter Repair and Maintenance Tools

As fall weather becomes unpredictable, your home or bug-out location needs to be secure. Stock up on:

Tarps, nails, and heavy-duty tape for quick repairs
Rope, paracord, and bungee cords for securing tarps or tents
Insulation materials to seal drafts and leaks in your home or shelter
Tools such as hammers, wrenches, and saws to make necessary repairs

Taking care of maintenance now ensures your shelter is ready for any severe weather that may come later in the season.

10. Backup Communication Devices

In an emergency, communication is vital. As weather worsens and potential disasters strike, ensure you have:

Hand-crank or solar-powered radios (for NOAA weather updates)
Walkie-talkies or CB radios for local communication
A satellite phone for remote communication where cell service may be down
A whistle or signaling device for alerting others if you're stranded

Reliable communication keeps you informed and allows you to reach help if needed.

Conclusion

As September ushers in the fall season, it's crucial to be prepared for the unique challenges this time of year can bring. By stocking up on these 10 essential items, you'll be well-equipped to handle the colder months, potential disasters, and any emergencies that may arise. Preparedness isn't just about surviving—it's about thriving, no matter the season.