Is your business ready when disaster strikes?

Disasters are on the rise—from floods and wildfires to severe storms and power outages. The American Red Cross now responds to major disasters nearly three times more often than five years ago. While more than 90% of businesses believe an emergency will strike within two years, 68% of small businesses still lack a recovery plan.

Kevin Coffey, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross Eastern New York Region, notes: “Nearly 40% of small businesses never reopen after a major disaster and nearly 50% will take 3 plus months to recover. Red Cross is here to help with the free Ready Rating program, empowering organizations to assess and improve their preparedness before disaster hits.”

The Red Cross Ready Rating program offers a free, step-by-step way to strengthen business preparedness—so when the unexpected happens, they are ready. When disaster strikes, the difference between quick recovery and prolonged disruption often comes down to one thing: preparedness.

“Participation in the Red Cross Ready Rating program has fundamentally strengthened how we approach organizational preparedness. Beyond providing a structured framework for planning, it has enabled us to identify gaps, implement best practices, and ensure continuity across our operations. The program delivers measurable value by helping us protect our workforce, maintain operational resilience, and uphold our responsibility to the broader community. Knowing that the steps we take today will safeguard our people and those who depend on our services tomorrow is both reassuring and strategically important,” said Frank Annicaro, Chief Executive Officer, Capital District Transportation Authority.

How Ready Rating Works The program begins with a confidential ReadyGO, a five-minute online assessment that evaluates emergency planning, safety protocols, staff training, and resource management. These insights empower leaders to make targeted improvements that strengthen safety, continuity, and resilience.

Participants also gain access to a robust library of tools including:

· Emergency Response Plan templates for critical procedures and responsibilities.

· Checklists for drills, supply maintenance, and key preparedness tasks.

· Staff training materials to ensure employees know their roles.

· Business continuity guidance to reduce downtime and sustain essential services.

Coffey says: “Organizations that participate often report not just improved safety, but also stronger teamwork and confidence among employees. The process of building a plan together — and practicing it — can reveal strengths, inspire new solutions, and ensure everyone knows what to do when it matters most.”

The ripple effect extends beyond one organization. Businesses that reopen quickly stabilize the local economy. Nonprofits that plan can continue delivering vital services when demand is highest.

“Being prepared isn’t optional—it’s smart. The Red Cross Ready Rating program guides us in making preparedness practical and actionable,” said Tim McCann, President, Best Companies.

The question isn’t whether an emergency will happen—it’s when. Participants demonstrate their commitment by earning the 2025 Ready Rating seal of approval, a mark of distinction displayed to employees, clients, and the community.

Coffey encourages leaders: “Strengthen your organization’s resilience, safeguard your people and assets, and demonstrate leadership in preparedness—enroll in the Red Cross Ready Rating program today to proactively manage risks and ensure your operations are ready for any emergency.”

Visit ReadyRating.org today!