Batteries power nearly everything in our lives, from flashlights to vehicles to the gear that keeps us safe during emergencies. In this first half of a two-part series, Jeff and Chris take a deep dive into the world of batteries, exploring the types, uses, and pitfalls every prepared person should understand. From lead-acid and lithium to household cells and charging habits, this episode breaks down how to keep your power reliable when the grid goes dark.

What’s in This Episode:

• How batteries power everything from cars to communication gear
• Differences between lead-acid, AGM, gel, and lithium batteries
• The strengths and weaknesses of LiPo and LiFePO4 cells
• Why battery maintenance matters more than you think
• Common causes of failure and how sulfation ruins lead-acid batteries
• Safe charging habits and why “fast charging” can shorten lifespan
• Understanding milliamps, discharge cycles, and why cheap batteries fail
• What makes UL-rated batteries safer for long-term use

Why Listen to This Episode?

This episode is packed with real-world knowledge to help you build confidence in your backup power plan. Whether you’re maintaining car batteries, powering radios, or running off-grid gear, you’ll learn how to get the most from every charge and avoid costly mistakes.

More Info:

• preparedneighborspodcast.com
• YouTube Channel
• RedCircle Podcast Page

Resources & Gear Mentioned:

• NOCO Genius 10 Battery Charger: https://amzn.to/4oU3SkP
• NOCO Battery Booster: https://amzn.to/47I17fO
• Battery Minder Trickle Charger: https://amzn.to/3WFJmbO
• IMAX B6 Charger/Discharger: https://amzn.to/47ruOmo
• RIGOL Programmable DC Load: https://amzn.to/47CMrhJ

In part two of our hurricane preparedness series, Jeff and Chris continue where they left off, moving from pre-storm planning into communication, power, and recovery. From generator maintenance and battery management to checking on your neighbors after the storm, this episode is packed with lessons learned and practical advice to help you weather the aftermath safely and smartly.

What’s in This Episode:

• Power and communication plans for hurricanes and outages
• Battery banks, solar chargers, and inverter setups for vehicles
• Radios, hand cranks, and why you should know your NOAA weather channels
• The basics of neighborhood communication plans and ham radio options
• Generator safety, fuel, and lubrication tips to keep engines running
• What to do during the storm, where to shelter, and what to avoid
• Candle safety, fire extinguishers, and home protection during high winds
• Assessing storm damage, clearing debris, and checking on neighbors
• Lessons from real storms and the importance of acting early

Why Listen to This Episode?

Part two rounds out your hurricane readiness plan with real-world experience and actionable strategies. Whether you’ve just been through a storm or want to prepare for the next one, this discussion gives you practical ways to stay safe, connected, and confident.

More Info:

• preparedneighborspodcast.com
• YouTube Channel
• RedCircle Podcast Page

Resources & Gear Mentioned:

• Weather Radio (NOAA channels, hand crank, solar): https://amzn.to/46R0xf5
• 12V Vehicle Inverter (power your gear safely): https://amzn.to/4nLY0Kr

Hurricane season is here, and staying prepared is more important than ever. In this episode, Jeff and Chris kick off a two-part series on hurricane preparedness. They break down the Saffir-Simpson scale, share real experiences from past storms, and walk through the essentials every household should plan for before the winds start to blow.

What’s in This Episode:

• Understanding the Saffir-Simpson hurricane scale and what the categories really mean
• Why storm surge is often more dangerous than wind
• The three types of people you’ll meet before a hurricane and how that shapes decisions
• Evacuation routes, shelters, and rally points for family safety
• Go bags, dry bags, and what to pack so you can leave quickly if needed
• How to prepare your vehicles, fuel storage, and generators ahead of a storm
• Household preparations: securing outdoor items, cleaning gutters, and testing sump pumps
• Preparedness tip of the day: creative ways to store cash and the importance of bug spray after storms

Why Listen to This Episode?

This conversation gives you a clear foundation for hurricane readiness. Whether you’ve been through storms before or are facing your first season, you’ll gain practical steps, smart habits, and a better understanding of the risks that matter most.

More Info:

• preparedneighborspodcast.com
• YouTube Channel
• RedCircle Podcast Page