A little preparation today can make a big difference tomorrow.
As we head into the winter season, the City of Burlingame is encouraging businesses and residents to prepare for heavy rain, potential flooding and power outages. A flooded storefront, damaged merchandise or prolonged outage can disrupt business operations and everyday life.
The good news? A few simple precautions can help protect our businesses, homes and community.
🏬 For Our Downtown Merchants: Protect Your Business
Whether you operate a boutique, restaurant, salon, office or professional service, now is a great time to review your storm preparedness plans.
Three important steps recommended by the City:
Back Up Your Records: Protect customer information, financial records, inventory lists and important contacts by storing secure copies in the cloud or off-site.
Move Stock Up: Keep merchandise, electronics, equipment and important documents off the floor, particularly in storage areas and locations vulnerable to water intrusion.
Check Your Insurance Coverage: Contact your insurance agent to understand what's covered—and what's not—including flood damage, equipment losses and business interruptions.
A few additional precautions worth taking:
Clear leaves and debris from gutters, drains and storefront entrances where safe, and report blocked public storm drains to the City.
Inspect doors, windows and roofs for potential leaks.
Keep flashlights, emergency supplies and backup chargers accessible.
Update employee emergency contacts and establish a plan for unexpected closures.
Know how to safely shut off utilities in an emergency, and avoid entering flooded areas.
🏡 For Residents: A Storm-Ready Community Starts at Home
Preparedness isn't just for businesses! Residents can help reduce risks by checking household drainage, securing outdoor furniture and decorations, keeping emergency supplies handy and preparing for possible power outages.
Sign up for local emergency alerts, keep important medications and documents accessible, and check on neighbors who may need assistance.
Remember: Never drive or walk through flooded roadways, and stay away from downed power lines.
🤝 Looking Out for One Another
Downtown Burlingame is more than a shopping district—it's a community of businesses, employees, residents and visitors.
During severe weather, a little cooperation goes a long way. Check on neighboring businesses, share important City updates and support local merchants when it's safe to do so.
🔗 Learn More: City of Burlingame Storm Preparedness
The City has created a helpful resource to assist businesses and residents in preparing for winter storms.
Visit the City of Burlingame's Storm Preparedness Resources
Emergency Contact Information, check out the Storm Guide
Take a few minutes to prepare now. It could save days of disruption later.
SHOP • DINE • PLAY • RELAX • LIVE
Downtown Burlingame — the place you want to be, rain or shine!