Experts stress security for businesses over holiday period

As the holiday season nears, security experts advise small and medium-sized businesses to take precautionary measures to protect their premises during the shutdown period.

Businesses often close for several days or weeks during Christmas and New Year, leaving them vulnerable to criminal activities. To avoid disruptions upon reopening, implementing robust security measures is essential.

ADT Security suggests that one of the most effective precautions is 24/7 monitoring. It is noted that more than 70% of burglaries occur at night, underlining the importance of after-hours security. In the event of an alarm trigger, monitoring professionals promptly notify business owners, allowing them to assess the situation through camera footage.

If movement is detected near business premises, the monitoring team can inform the owner immediately and, with authorisation, alert licensed security personnel or local authorities.

Dennison Hambling, Managing Director of Intelligent Monitoring Group, stated, "Visible security cameras serve as a strong deterrent to potential intruders and provide invaluable evidence if an incident occurs. Many businesses with visible cameras report a reduction in break-ins and vandalism, as criminals are less likely to target locations where their actions could be recorded."

He further explained, "When intruders see cameras, they understand the risk of being caught is significantly higher. At best, this encourages them to move on to a less secure target. In the unfortunate event of an incident, recorded footage supports insurance claims and investigations, aiding authorities in identifying and apprehending offenders."

Hambling advises businesses to take several practical measures before closing for the holidays to reduce security risks. Recommendations include installing or upgrading security systems, securing all entry points, communicating with neighbouring businesses or local security, and scheduling regular patrols or property checks.

"Taking a few proactive steps can save business owners a lot of trouble when they reopen after the holiday," said Dennison Hambling. "No one wants to return to damaged property or stolen assets. We've seen how proper preparation can prevent everything from petty vandalism to major theft. Businesses should do what they can now, so they don't have to deal with the consequences later."