September is National Preparedness Month – It Starts at Home

As a preparedness-minded person, I believe readiness always starts at home. Emergencies can take many forms—an illness, job loss, earthquake, or even a pandemic (yes, we’ve all seen that one firsthand). Having food, water, and other personal essentials on hand can make all the difference when life throws the unexpected at you.

Remember the toilet paper shortage of 2020? Fun times… but also a reminder that being prepared matters.

That’s why this September, PackFreshUSA is launching a Preparedness Month Challenge. Each day, we’ll share a simple one-day project to help you and your family get a little more prepared. By the end of the month, you’ll have built stronger peace of mind and a foundation of readiness—step by step, day by day.

Preparedness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s about small, consistent actions that add up to a big difference. Join us this September and take the challenge with your family—it starts at home, but the benefits ripple out to your whole community.

PackFreshUSA September Preparedness Challenge

One Day. One Project. A Safer Family.

This September, in honor of National Preparedness Month, PackFreshUSA invites you to take part in our 30-Day Preparedness Challenge. Each day features a simple, actionable project designed to make your family stronger, safer, and more ready for emergencies. From food storage to family drills, every step builds confidence and resilience.

September Calendar of One-Day Prepping Projects

Week 1 – Build Your Food Storage Foundation

• SEP 1: Water – Store 1 gallon per person, per day (minimum 3-day supply).

• SEP 2: Grains – Oats, rice, wheat, corn in PackFreshUSA Mylar bags + oxygen absorbers.

• SEP 3: Legumes – Pinto, black beans, chickpeas, lentils.

• SEP 4: Sweeteners – Sugar, honey, syrup, molasses sealed in stand-up pouches.

• SEP 5: Fats & Oils – Coconut oil, ghee, olive oil.

• SEP 6: Dairy – Add powdered milk or shelf-stable dairy alternatives.

Week 2 – Rotate, Store, & Practice

• SEP 7: Label & rotate with resealable Mylar pouches (FIFO system).

• SEP 8: Make a “comfort meal” kit (mac & cheese, chili mix, soup).

• SEP 9: Practice vacuum-sealing bulk cheese/meat for the freezer.

• SEP 10: Freeze-dry or dehydrate fruits (apples, bananas, strawberries).

• SEP 11: Prep a 72-hour food kit in a grab-n-go tote.

• SEP 12: Build a spice & seasoning kit (mini Mylar pouches keep flavor fresh).

• SEP 13: Try a “cook-without-power” day (grill, camp stove, or solar oven).

Week 3 – Health & Household Essentials

• SEP 14: Cook one meal using only storage pantry foods.

• SEP 15: Check your first aid kit (bandages, ointments, antiseptics).

• SEP16: Add electrolyte packs & rehydration items.

• SEP 17: Stock prescription meds & pet meds (rotate regularly).

• SEP 18: Organize bathroom cabinets – add safety latches if in earthquake zones.

• SEP 19: Write down family allergies & medical needs – store with your kit.

• SEP 20: Store hygiene items (toilet paper, wipes, soap) in waterproof bags.

Week 4 – Drills, Documents, & Pets

• SEP 21: Practice a family emergency drill (fire escape, shelter-in-place).

• SEP 22: Build grab-n-go bags for each family member.

• SEP 23: Prep for pets – food & treats in resealable Mylar bags.

• SEP 24: Check & secure heavy furniture/cabinets (quake or fall hazard).

• SEP 25: Create a document binder or encrypted flash drive (IDs, insurance).

• SEP 26: Practice using stored water – boil, filter, or purify.

• SEP 27: Build a “comfort pack” (chocolate, cocoa, coffee, tea).

Week 5 – Power & Reflection

• SEP 28: Test generator, solar charger, or alternate light sources.

• SEP 29: Host a “Preparedness Dinner” – serve only stored foods.

• SEP 30: Reflect, review, restock – make a list of October goals.

Tip: Use PackFreshUSA Mylar Bags & Oxygen Absorbers to keep your food storage fresh, organized, and secure.