September is National Preparedness Month: prepare your business

Published on September 28, 2026

During National Preparedness Month, Menlo Park businesses are encouraged to take practical steps to protect employees and continue essential operations. Menlo Park is home to local small businesses and internationally recognized companies, all of which contribute to the City’s economy and vibrant community.When an emergency occurs, they may face power outages, communication failures, inaccessible facilities, employee shortages, damaged equipment and delayed deliveries. Planning for these disruptions can reduce financial losses and help businesses reopen sooner.

A disaster can interrupt utilities, damage property, separate employees, disrupt supply chains and prevent customers from reaching local businesses. Begin by identifying the operations your business cannot function without. Consider which resources (such as payment systems, customer records or utilities) are most critical and determine how long your business can operate without each. This helps you prioritize actions and ensures your plan addresses your specific needs.

Businesses can strengthen their preparedness by taking several basic actions:

• Register for SMC Alert and encourage employees to do the same.
• Maintain emergency contact lists for employees, vendors, property managers and insurance providers.
• Back up essential records and confirm they can be accessed remotely.
• Protect critical equipment from power surges and outages.
• Identify alternate suppliers, work locations and communication methods.
• Maintain emergency supplies for employees and customers who may need to remain onsite.
• Review insurance coverage and photograph important equipment and inventory.
• Practice the emergency plan and update it when staffing or operations change.

Business preparedness also supports community recovery. When local businesses can continue operating or reopen quickly, they preserve jobs, provide essential goods and services and help restore a sense of normalcy.

Preparedness does not require solving every problem at once. This week, identify your business’s three most essential operations and document how each would continue in the event of an extended disruption.

Learn more from MenloPrepared and the federal Ready Business program to access tools, templates and support that can help you develop a comprehensive emergency plan tailored to your business needs.