Prepping Cycles (Annual, Bi-Annual, Quarterly, Monthly)

This past week I spent a few days getting ready for winter (it has already snowed here in CO on top of the 14k feet mountains), two years ago our first snow where I live was in early September.  It has been raining almost every evening for months which is unheard of and it makes me think the snow could be often and deep, so I’m getting everything ready in advance as much as possible.  Much like the title of this post suggests I do follow a cycle for my preps, in that I might cycle my fuel once every 6 months but only inventory food stores every year.  It’s all based on personal preference and your own scenario but the key here is to constantly be engaged with your prepping strategy.  What matters to me might not to you, so pick what you want and use my example below (not all inclusive) as a guide.

Annual Checks:
– Home Alarm batteries (all sensors replaced etc)
– Wood stove maintenance
– Water storage inventory
– Food storage inventory
– Safe deposit box, electronics

Bi-Annual Checks:
– Trail Cam batteries replaced
– Furnace filter
– Gasoline cycled (I use Stabil with no issues for over 50 gallons)
– Vehicle EDC kits, med kits etc
– Bugout gear (think wildfire)

Quarterly Checks:
– Septic tablets and piping (it can get clogged causing a backup)
– Run generators (3)
– Run things with motors if not used (i.e. chainsaw)
– Electronic backups

Monthly Checks:
– Keep tabs on ammo depending on how much training I’m doing
– Dog food supply (a real consideration with 4 dogs and not wanting to get low)
– Garage floor freezer meat supply, other perishable items

As stated previously this list is not all inclusive and I’m probably forgetting stuff but you get the idea.  A bunch of motors not ran, preps collecting dust or expiring does nobody any good.  Be engaged with your plan and ensure members of your family are too.  Have ideas?  Leave them in the comments.