Business security for an incident-free holiday season
The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and celebrations—but it’s also a time when business security risks can spike. With more people traveling, shopping online, and hosting large gatherings, the opportunity for theft, cybercrime, and accidents increases. Here’s how to protect your business during the most wonderful time of the year, so you can enjoy time with your loved ones stress-free.
Secure your property during closures
If you and your teams have plans to travel this holiday season, we recommend taking precautions when preparing for business closures.
- Invest in a security system: Modern systems with motion detection, remote monitoring, and access control provide peace of mind when you can’t be at your property.
- Pause deliveries: Avoid piled-up mail, which signals an empty building. Arrange for someone to collect packages or pause deliveries.
- Lock all doors and windows: It sounds simple, but double-checking all entry points can deter opportunistic burglars. This extra step only takes a few minutes, but it can save you from second-guessing security during your holiday and starting off the new year recovering from a break-in.
- Notify your alarm company: If your business hours will change for an extended period, inform your security provider so they can monitor your system effectively.
Considerations for cyber-safety
While online shopping is convenient, it can also expose you to cyber threats. Business security can be compromised if your private details are exposed. Protect your information by keeping an eye out on the internet
- Watch for scams: Always be cautious of unsolicited messages and double-check deals that seem too good to be true. Cybercriminals exploit the rush of online shopping with phishing emails, fake e-commerce websites, and bogus ads offering unrealistic deals on high-demand items. Make sure to verify emails and phone numbers before clicking any links.
- Use secure websites: Only shop on trusted websites with “https” in the URL. This URL is encrypted to ensure secure data transmission and protect your sensitive information like credit card and social security numbers.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi: You should always shop online under a trusted network. If you must shop online in public, use a VPN to secure your connection.
General business security
Businesses face unique challenges compared to residences during the holidays, especially retail locations. Below are a few tips to stay on top of your business security.
- Reinforce video security: Ensure your cameras are functioning and cover high-risk areas. If you plan to have any holiday closures, this will be crucial so you can keep an eye on your property when you’re not physically there. Bonus points if you have a system with professional monitoring—the more eyes on your property, the merrier.
- Train staff: Educate employees on identifying suspicious behavior and handling cash securely. Especially during this busy time of year, it’s critical to equip your personnel with tools to optimize safety.
- Update security protocols: Review your alarm systems and emergency procedures for peak effectiveness.
Fire and safety precautions for business security
Holiday decorations and cold weather introduce new safety risks.
- Inspect all lights: Check for frayed wires and avoid overloading electrical outlets. Opt for smart power strips that automatically turn off devices when not in use.
- Be cautious with candles: Never leave them unattended, especially near flammable decorations.
- Maintain heating systems: Confirm that heating systems are clean and functioning well.
- Schedule a sprinkler inspection: With additional fire hazards at play, it’s important to ensure your fire alarm system is in good working condition and perform any necessary maintenance.
Final thoughts
While the holidays are a time to relax and celebrate, staying vigilant about security can prevent stress and loss. Small precautions make a big difference.
With the right measures and in place, you can enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season. Stay secure, and happy holidays!
Start a conversation with a Bay Alarm security expert.
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