Last week, FEMA released an update to its “Continuity Guidance Circular” (CGC) document. This resource is intended to help stakeholders in both public and private organizations build continuity capabilities. The document details the fundamental concepts to unify the application of continuity principles, planning, and programs in communities across the nation.

Continuity of operations is the ability of an organization to continue essential functions, provide essential services, and deliver core capabilities during a disruption to normal operations, according to FEMA. And continuity planning can help enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure organizations to a number of all-hazards contingencies. Accordingly, the document provides an understanding of various continuity options, offers guidance on how to integrate these options into operations, and details resources and tools to help organizations develop their continuity capabilities. The document concludes by emphasizing entities “at all levels play a key role in ensuring a resilient nation by providing critical services and conducting essential functions daily. When a disruption to normal operations occurs, the need for these services and functions becomes even more critical.” Consequently, local governments and organizations can help overcome these challenges with proper continuity planning. Access the updated guide at FEMA.