As the days get shorter and the weather colder, it’s easy to focus on staying warm and preparing for the holidays. But for businesses, this time of year comes with added security risks. Winter’s longer nights and holiday closures make properties more vulnerable to break-ins and theft. So, before winter fully sets in, it’s a good idea to review your security measures to ensure your premises are well protected.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to keep things secure during the colder months.

Check Your Perimeter

With more hours of darkness, your building's outer defences become even more important. Now’s the time to check whether your perimeter is properly secured. Are gates and fences in good condition? Is your external lighting working as it should be? A well-lit exterior can make all the difference, especially in areas that aren't visible from the street.

Also, take a look at the locks on your external doors and gates. If they’re looking a little worn, it might be time for an upgrade. Consider electronic access control systems if you want something a bit more robust than standard locks.

Test Your Alarms

Winter often means extended periods where premises are left unattended, particularly over the holiday season. That’s why it’s so important to have a functioning alarm system. Do a quick test of your alarms to make sure everything’s working properly, and check that your security monitoring is set up correctly. If you haven’t already signed up for a monitoring service, it’s worth considering—this way, you’ll get an alert if anything happens while you’re away.

Rethink Your Lighting

It’s not just your outdoor lights that need attention. Inside, you might want to set up automatic lighting to give the appearance that someone is still onsite, even when the building is empty. This can be an effective way to deter would-be intruders who might be scoping out your property for signs of activity. Timers or motion-activated lights inside key areas can help create the illusion of a busy office.

Review Your Security Cameras

Security cameras are one of the most reliable tools for protecting your business, especially when there’s no one around to keep an eye on things. However, winter’s lower light conditions can make it harder for standard cameras to capture clear footage. If your cameras aren’t equipped with night-vision or low-light capabilities, it might be time for an upgrade.

Also, make sure your cameras are positioned to cover all vulnerable areas, like back doors, loading bays, or parking lots. If your business is in an area with higher crime rates, remote monitoring services can give you peace of mind, letting you view live footage no matter where you are.

Secure Your Valuables

As the holiday season approaches, theft becomes a bigger concern for many businesses. If you have valuable equipment or stock, now’s the time to ensure it’s properly secured. Consider storing high-value items in more secure areas or moving them out of sight altogether during prolonged closures.

It’s also helpful to rotate stock regularly, keeping the most expensive items away from public view. And don't underestimate the power of simple measures like signage, which can remind potential thieves that security measures—like cameras and alarms—are in place.

Plan for Holiday Closures

For businesses that close over the holidays, a bit of forward planning can go a long way. Before locking up, do a final sweep of your premises. Check all entry points, including doors, windows, and skylights. Ensure bins are emptied and anything that could attract attention is taken care of.

If possible, arrange for someone to check in on the property while it’s closed, or use remote monitoring to keep an eye on things yourself. The small effort it takes to plan ahead can save a lot of headaches later.

Winter brings its own set of challenges, but with a bit of preparation, your business can weather the season without too much trouble. Whether it’s upgrading your alarm system or just double-checking the locks, these small steps will help you stay secure as the temperatures drop.

Taking action now will allow you to enjoy the season with fewer worries, knowing your business is well-protected.

If you’re looking for extra peace of mind this winter, Priority First can help. We provide a range of security services for businesses in London and the surrounding areas, from CCTV monitoring and canine patrols to close protection and concierge services. Whether you need physical protection, logistics management, or corporate security, our team has the expertise to keep your premises safe. To learn more about how we can support your business, give us a call on 0203 576 5203 or drop us an email at hello@priorityfirst.co.uk.

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