When it comes to running a business, maintaining security should always be a priority. However, during busy seasons – such as the holiday period or special events – security needs can increase significantly. The higher foot traffic, extended hours, and increased volume of stock often make businesses more vulnerable to theft and other security threats.
At Surety Keyholding, we specialise in keeping businesses secure throughout the year. In this post, we’ll provide you with valuable, easy-to-follow tips to help you enhance your security this season, protect your assets, and offer peace of mind to you and your staff.
1. Assess and Update Your Security Plan
Your security plan may work well most of the time, but during busy periods, it’s essential to reassess and adapt. Reviewing your current setup allows you to identify potential vulnerabilities that may need additional attention. Here’s how:
Conduct a risk assessment: Identify areas that are most at risk, such as entrances, exits, and high-value stock areas.
Evaluate staffing needs: Consider increasing security staff or hiring additional keyholding and alarm response services to cover peak hours.
Update protocols: Brief all employees on any new procedures or emergency protocols that may be necessary due to the increased activity.
Taking the time to reassess can help you prevent incidents before they occur and ensure your business remains secure when it’s busiest.
2. Enhance Physical Security Measures
A strong physical security presence deters potential intruders and reassures both customers and staff. For peak seasons, it’s wise to invest in physical security improvements. Consider the following:
Upgraded locks and doors: Ensure all entry points are fitted with secure locks and reinforced doors if necessary. Windows and doors should also be regularly inspected for any signs of wear or damage.
Alarm systems: A reliable alarm system is crucial, but make sure it’s up-to-date and in good working order. During busy seasons, it’s wise to test your alarm system to ensure it’s functioning as expected.
Security gates and barriers: Install security gates or barriers at main access points to prevent unauthorised entry, especially after hours.
Lock up valuables: Keep high-value stock and equipment in secure areas and use locked cabinets or cages if available.
By bolstering these physical security elements, you make it harder for anyone to gain unauthorised access to your premises.
3. Leverage CCTV and Surveillance
Security cameras are one of the most effective deterrents against theft and vandalism. However, during busy times, it’s essential to ensure your CCTV system is fully operational and strategically positioned.
Check camera coverage: Ensure cameras cover all critical areas, including entrances, exits, stock rooms, and tills. Adjust angles if necessary.
Increase camera presence in vulnerable spots: For peak seasons, adding extra cameras in areas with valuable stock can be a wise investment.
Regularly review footage: Designate a team member to periodically review footage or consider using a remote monitoring service. This will allow you to catch any unusual activity early on.
Signage: Let people know they’re being watched by placing clear “CCTV in operation” signs around your premises. This acts as an additional deterrent.
A well-maintained CCTV system not only discourages criminal activity but also provides valuable evidence if an incident occurs.
4. Strengthen Access Control
Increased traffic during seasonal peaks means more people coming in and out, which can complicate access control. To keep security manageable, it’s essential to restrict access to certain areas of your business.
Utilise keyholding services: For a secure, hassle-free solution, Surety Keyholding can manage who enters and exits your building, providing controlled access, especially during off-peak hours.
Access cards or key fobs: If your business has multiple access points, consider using access cards or key fobs that only authorised employees can use. It’s easy to deactivate or restrict access as needed.
Security checks: During busy times, implementing bag checks at exits can prevent stock losses and discourage theft.
Limiting access to sensitive areas minimises the risk of internal theft and keeps unauthorised individuals from gaining access to high-risk areas.
5. Educate Your Staff on Security Awareness
Your employees are your first line of defence. Make sure they’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to spot potential security risks and handle security incidents effectively.
Provide training: Regular security training for all employees is essential, especially before peak seasons. This could include identifying suspicious behaviour, managing emergency situations, and following reporting procedures.
Encourage vigilance: Remind staff to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings. Encourage them to report any suspicious activity or unusual behaviour immediately.
Secure personal belongings: Ensure that your staff have a secure place to store their personal items. This helps to prevent internal losses and improves staff morale.
Staff who are well-trained in security practices can play a crucial role in keeping your business safe during high-risk periods.
6. Use Seasonal Security Services
During peak times, the demand for security is higher, and having extra help can make a significant difference. Partnering with a professional security provider can be a cost-effective way to enhance your business’s security.
Keyholding services: Surety Keyholding can manage alarm response and provide support during off-hours, giving you peace of mind that your premises are safe around the clock.
Mobile patrols: For larger premises or areas with high foot traffic, mobile patrols can monitor your property periodically and respond quickly to incidents.
Alarm response: During busy seasons, it’s wise to ensure you have a reliable alarm response plan in place. Many keyholding companies offer 24/7 alarm response, ensuring any security issues are dealt with quickly and professionally.
Working with a trusted security provider gives you the flexibility to increase security as needed, without overwhelming your own team.
7. Secure Digital Assets
With the rise of digital payments and online transactions, securing your digital assets is just as important as protecting your physical premises.
Cybersecurity measures: Use firewalls, antivirus software, and secure payment gateways to protect against data breaches. Ensure that all software is up-to-date, as outdated systems are more vulnerable to attacks.
Password protection: Encourage employees to use strong, unique passwords for all business accounts and update them regularly.
Limit access to sensitive data: Not all staff need access to everything. Restrict access to customer data and other sensitive information to only those who truly need it.
Protecting your digital assets not only prevents data theft but also builds customer trust, showing them that you take their privacy seriously.
8. Plan for Emergencies
Emergencies, such as fires, medical issues, or security breaches, are more likely when your premises are busier. Preparing a well-thought-out emergency plan can minimise the damage and help your team respond effectively.
Emergency drills: Run regular drills for scenarios like fire evacuations or security lockdowns so that staff know how to react swiftly and calmly.
Emergency exits: Ensure that all emergency exits are clearly marked and accessible, even in crowded areas.
First aid: Make sure there are always trained first-aiders on site, particularly during high-traffic periods.
By planning for emergencies, you create a safer environment for customers and staff, reducing risks during busy times.
Wrapping Up
As we approach another busy season, now is the perfect time to review and strengthen your business’s security measures. By implementing these seasonal security tips, you can protect your premises, assets, and people, keeping your business safe and running smoothly even at peak times.
At Surety Keyholding, we’re here to support your security needs with professional keyholding, alarm response, and mobile patrol services across Cheshire. With our reliable, round-the-clock service, we’re committed to keeping your business secure.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help secure your business during the busy season and beyond!
Share this post:
