Month: <span>September 2023</span>

Adapting your security system for different seasons is essential for maintaining year-round protection. Seasonal security adjustments help to ensure that your system remains effective and your property stays safe, regardless of the weather.

Autumn brings a unique set of security considerations for businesses. You need to accommodate for the shorter daylight hours, the colder and windier weather, and changes to the environment surrounding your perimeter.

Here are some important security considerations for businesses during the autumn season.

Outdoor lighting

To accommodate changing daylight hours, it is important to maintain adequate outdoor lighting. Adjust lighting that is on a timer to come on sooner and go off later. Consider installing motion-activated lighting around the perimeter of your business. Well-lit areas deter potential intruders and provide a sense of safety for employees and customers.

Alarm systems

With autumn comes unpredictable weather, such as storms and power outages. Check that your alarm systems are in working order and have backup power sources in case of electricity interruptions. This will help to ensure that your business remains protected, even in adverse weather conditions.

Windows and doors

Regularly inspect windows and doors to ensure they are secure. Consider installing deadbolt locks to doors and reinforcing glass windows with security film to make it harder for intruders to gain entry.

Landscaping

Overgrown trees and shrubs can provide cover for potential intruders. Trim these back, particularly around entrances and windows, to eliminate hiding spots and improve visibility. Also be mindful of falling branches during windy autumn days, as they can damage property or pose safety risks.

Leaf clearing

Autumn leaves may seem harmless, but they can pose a fire hazard when they accumulate near entrances and HVAC systems, and they can also obscure security camera views. Regularly clear away leaves and debris from the perimeter, and ensure lenses are clear from obstructions, to reduce the risk of fires and potential security breaches.

HVAC maintenance

As it gets colder, your heating will be on more often, so it is a good idea to schedule HVAC

maintenance in autumn. Heating systems can become fire hazards if not properly maintained. Ensure that they are clean and functioning efficiently.

Employee training

Over summer and with the holiday season approaching, you may see an increase in employee turnover and hires. Autumn is a good time to ensure that all existing and new employees are familiar with the security protocols. Ensuring staff are properly trained can help to reduce the risk and impact of security breaches.

Inspection

Consider scheduling a professional security audit or building inspection. Experts can identify vulnerabilities and recommend specific security enhancements which are tailored to your business’ needs.

For professional advice and support with reviewing and upgrading your security systems, get in touch with our team of experts at Gateway Automation on 01522 682255, or email info@gatewayautomation.co.uk, for professional help and advice.

With over 40 years of combined experience and expertise, Gateway Automation offers a value for money service with well-engineered and high-quality security systems and barriers, manufactured to your specific requirements.

 

CCTV plays a pivotal role in modern perimeter security systems. It provides constant surveillance of your perimeter, acts as a visual deterrent to criminal activity, and can provide crucial evidence in the case of incidents.

However, relying solely on CCTV may leave vulnerabilities in your perimeter security. Integrating other measures to create a multi-layered security approach will provide a more comprehensive defense and ensure a faster and more effective response to breaches.

To help you develop a system which will effectively safeguard property, assets, and people, here are some of the perimeter security measures which are perfect companions for CCTV.

Access control systems

Access control systems, such as card readers, keypads or biometric scanners, are essential for managing and restricting entry to your premises or secure areas. Access control systems can be implemented at entry points around the building, as well as at gates or barriers.

By integrating access control with CCTV, you can monitor and record who enters and exits specific areas in real-time. This not only enhances security but also aids in investigations if an incident occurs.

Intrusion detection alarms

Designed to alert you immediately when there is unauthorised access to your property, intrusion detection alarms can significantly enhance your perimeter security system.

These alarms can be integrated with your CCTV system so that when an alarm is triggered the cameras focus on the area of intrusion. This allows you to better assess the situation and respond more quickly.

Motion sensors

Motion sensors can be programmed to trigger alarms or send alerts to security personnel, enhancing your ability to respond promptly to security breaches.

When used in conjunction with CCTV, motion sensors can trigger cameras to start recording when movement is detected in specific areas. This minimises the need for continuous recording and allows you to capture footage of suspicious activities.

Security lighting

Proper lighting is a fundamental component of an effective security system. Well-illuminated areas deter potential intruders and improve the quality of CCTV footage, especially at night.

Motion-activated security lighting is a perfect companion for CCTV as it ensures that your cameras capture clear images, making it easier to identify individuals and incidents.

Security personnel

While technology plays a vital role in security, security personnel are also important. Security personnel provide a physical presence on-site which can deter criminal activity.

CCTV and security personnel go hand in hand. Your security team can monitor cameras, respond to alarms, and coordinate with law enforcement when necessary. They are able to assess situations, make judgements and take action, which CCTV alone cannot.

While CCTV cameras provide valuable surveillance, they are most effective when used in conjunction with other security measures. A multi-layered approach will not only deter criminal activity, but also ensures a faster, more effective response to security incidents.

For professional advice and support with reviewing and upgrading your security systems, get in touch with our team of experts at Gateway Automation on 01522 682255, or email info@gatewayautomation.co.uk, for professional help and advice.

With over 40 years of combined experience and expertise, Gateway Automation offers a value for money service with well-engineered and high-quality security systems and barriers, manufactured to your specific requirements.