Summer is over, the autumn school term is well under way, and the clocks will be going back at the end the month. It’s time to start preparing for winter and making sure your security systems are up to date and ready for the season.
As the nights grow longer and daylight decreases, there is a significant increase in burglaries. A 25% increase in household burglaries has been recorded over the winter period, with Halloween and bonfire night being the worst.
There are some simple steps you can take to help keep your home and business secure over this period and it is worth carrying out a review and maintenance of your security systems at this time of year.
Cameras
Do you have CCTV cameras outside your property? Are they ready for the winter weather conditions? Make sure they are properly secured and not at risk of being disconnected or damaged by high winds, rain or snow.
Check the footage from your cameras; if they aren’t being remotely monitored by a professional security company, you should make sure they have sufficient lighting.
Lighting & Alarms
Most burglars are opportunistic and good lighting and alarm systems can act as an excellent deterrent.
Motion sensor lights are worthwhile during the darker months, both for domestic and business properties. Well lit car parks are also important for business premises, giving your staff extra security when they start and leave work in the dark.
Grounds
Keeping grounds clear, trimming any overgrown bushes or shrubs will remove hiding places outside your buildings and reduce the risk of trespassers, vandals and burglars. Prepare your property for winter by checking perimeter fencing and gates will withstand the weather. Check your signage can be easily seen, especially CCTV or alarm warning signs.
Technology
Are your IT systems up to date? Make sure all updates have been completed and information is backed-up regularly and stored off site.
Site or staff changes
Do you have different staffing requirements over the winter period? Make sure your risk assessments are up to date if staff are working longer hours or are alone in an office after dark. Do you have security guards on site or are staff members responsible for locking up at night?
It is also worth reviewing your staff security access. If staff members leave, do you change passwords and security codes? Have they returned keys?
Keyholders
Local staff acting as keyholders might seem a good idea during the summer months, but over winter when the weather is unpredictable at best, there is much greater chance they won’t be able to respond to an alarm. The risks are also greater at this time of year, with more chance of intruders as well as the darkness and potential bad weather; should you really expect a staff member to be responsible for going out in the middle of the night?
Home Security
Don’t forget October is National Home Security Month (NHSM). Stay up to date with all the latest advice and recommendations for keeping your home secure by following @SecurityMonth and @LeisuresecPLC
If you’re looking for ways to improve your security, take a look at the services Leisuresec provides and get in touch for a free, no obligation, quote.
