I'm currently in the middle of making a small emergency power source using an AGM 40 Ah deep cycle battery. It will have a 120 v AC plugin, 2 USB c-charger plugins, a 12 volt cig lighter plugin, power meter, solar panel plugin, and trickle charger, so if current is available, it will be charging. This is enough to run small fans, laptops, power cell phones, lights, and other small devices. Have any of you made similar devices? Any tips?

While I was getting ready for the big winter storm of the east, I looked into and purchased an electric blanket. It only takes 200 watts to run, and I can run it from my power bank for several days continuously before running out of power. Something to consider for your winter preps!

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Welcome to the Rational Preppers community. This group exists for one purpose:to help everyday people prepare for instability with logic, steadiness, and compassion — not fear. We focus on realistic preparedness that strengthens households, friendships, and communities.This is a calm space, a helpful space, and a space grounded in clear thinking. Here’s how to get the most out of it. ========================================= 1. Our Community Values ========================================= We built this group around three guiding principles: 1. Preparation over panic We prepare for what’s probable, not what’s cinematic. 2. Clarity over fear Facts, not speculation. Calm, not crisis energy. 3. Community over isolation We help each other — because resilient people create resilient neighborhoods. If your post supports these values, you’re in the right place. ========================================= 2. What You’re Encouraged to Share ========================================= This community thrives when we learn from each other. Here’s what’s always welcome: • Practical prepping tips Simple, everyday things you’ve learned:• cheap food staples• ways you rotated your pantry• water storage tricks• budget prepping wins • Realistic scenarios you’re preparing for Examples:• power outages• supply disruptions• job loss• storms• heat waves• rising costs• grid instability• cyber outages If real people face it in real life, it’s relevant. • Photos of your organizational systems A tidy tote, a shelf you’ve stocked, a simple first-aid setup — these help beginners enormously. • Beginner questions No shame. No judgment.We all start somewhere. • Community successes Did you help a neighbor?Build a first-aid kit?Try a no-power meal?Finish a prepping challenge? Celebrate it here. • Skills you’ve learned Cooking without electricityFiltering waterBasic repairsBudget planningGardeningMap readingMental resilience techniques Skills grow community strength. =========================================