America 250: Powering Through Storms Since 1988

Power - by Joe Weber - updated on 5/18/2026

As our nation looks toward the historic milestone of America 250  , we find ourselves reflecting on the values that define the American spirit: independence, innovation, and, above all, resilience.

At Batteries Plus, our own story is woven into the fabric of the communities we serve. When we opened our first store in Green Bay back in 1988, our mission was simple: to provide the expertise and products people need to keep their lives moving. For nearly 40 years—through decades of technological shifts and seasons of extreme weather—we've stood alongside our neighbors, ensuring that when the lights go out, the power stays on.

In honor of America 250, we're focusing on a cornerstone of American life: staying prepared for storm season. Whether it's the hurricane-prone coasts, the "Tornado Alley" plains, or the wildfire-threatened West, Batteries Plus has your back.

Why Preparedness is a Patriotic Duty

Resilience isn't just about reacting to a crisis; it's about the quiet work we do before the clouds roll in. In the spirit of the "Minutemen" of our nation's past, being ready at a moment's notice is how we protect our families and our local economies.

Here is how we are helping you stay "Storm Ready" this year:

1. Lighting the Way

When the grid goes down, visibility is your first line of defense. We recommend keeping a mix of hands-free and high-output lighting in your kit.

• The Essentials: The LuxPro LP600V3 Flashlight offers 550 lumens of reliability. For hands-free work, our LED headlamps are a must-have for navigating dark hallways or checking on the circuit breaker.
• Smart Tech: Don't forget UltraLast Emergency Backup LED Bulbs. These "smart" bulbs work like regular lights but stay on for hours during a power outage thanks to an internal battery.

2. Information is Power

In 1776, information traveled by horseback. Today, it travels via radio waves and digital signals—but only if you have the power to receive it.

• The Lifeline: A Storm Safe Emergency AM/FM/NOAA Weather Radio is non-negotiable. It keeps you informed of evacuation orders and safety updates when cell towers are down.
• The Backup: Keep your smartphones charged for emergency alerts with X2Power Portable Power Stations. Our 300W units are light enough for a "go-bag" but powerful enough to keep your devices alive for days.

3. The "Silent Heroes" of Your Home

Often, the most important batteries are the ones you don't see until you need them.

• Safety First: Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. We carry 10-year Lithium 9V batteries that ensure you're protected without the "low battery chirp" at 2 AM.
• Property Protection: For those in flood-prone areas, a Sump Pump Backup Battery can save your basement—and your history—from water damage.

Expert Advice: The 6-Month Checkup

Since the late 80s, our "Experts in Charge" have advised customers to treat their emergency kits like a living document.

• Rotate Your Stock: Check your alkaline AA and AAA packs every six months. Replace any that are nearing their expiration date.
• Test Your Auto Battery: Extreme heat and cold are the silent killers of car batteries. Stop by any Batteries Plus for a Free Battery Test to ensure your "getaway vehicle" is ready if an evacuation order is issued.
• Fire Safety: Keep a LifeSafe StaySafe All-in-1 Fire Suppressant in the kitchen and the garage. It's a modern, compact alternative to the traditional heavy extinguisher.

Supporting America's Future

As we march toward America's 250th anniversary, Batteries Plus remains committed to the same goal we had in 1988: being the local experts you can trust. We've grown from one store in Wisconsin to over 700 locations nationwide, but our heart remains in your neighborhood.

Don't wait for the sky to turn gray. Visit our Emergency Preparedness hub or stop into your local store today. Let's make sure your family is powered, protected, and prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws our way.

Emergency Prep FAQ

Q: What should I include in a basic emergency preparedness kit?

A: A basic emergency kit should include flashlights, extra batteries, a NOAA weather radio, first aid supplies, bottled water, non-perishable food, and phone chargers/power banks.

Q: How often should I update my emergency kit?

A: We recommend checking your kit every six months. Test your flashlights and radios, check the expiration dates on food and water, and swap out older alkaline batteries for fresh ones.

Q: Why is a weather radio better than just using my phone?

A: During severe storms, cell towers can become congested or physically damaged. A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio receives dedicated emergency broadcasts that remain active even when the internet and cellular networks fail.

Q: Which batteries are best for long-term storage in a kit?

A: Lithium batteries are ideal for emergency kits because they have a shelf life of up to 20 years and perform much better in extreme temperatures (hot or cold) than standard alkaline batteries.

Q: Can Batteries Plus help me if I have a home generator?

A: Absolutely. We carry replacement batteries for most portable and standby generators to ensure your backup power source starts up exactly when you need it.