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Top Tips for Securing Your Business During Out-of-Hours: A Comprehensive Guide

Jordan Mooney • April 4, 2025

Practical Steps to Keep Your Business Safe When No-One is Around.

Securing your business outside of regular hours is essential for protecting your assets, data, and staff. Whether you run a small office, a retail shop, or a large industrial site, taking practical steps can help prevent theft, vandalism, and other risks. This guide offers tips to help keep your premises secure when they are empty, focusing on both physical security measures and technological solutions.

1. Install Reliable Locks and Alarms

Good locks and a dependable alarm system are the basics of securing any business. Ensure all entry points, including doors and windows, have sturdy locks. Deadbolts and multi-point locking systems are generally more secure than standard locks.

Consider an alarm system with motion sensors monitored by a security company. This way, if there is a break-in, the system will alert someone, even when the premises are unoccupied.

2. Use Security Lighting

Lighting is a straightforward way to deter criminal activity. Ensure the outside of your business is well-lit, especially around entrances, loading areas, and hidden spots. Motion-activated lights can be particularly useful after hours.

Inside, keeping a few lights on at night can make it look like someone is still on-site, discouraging potential intruders.

3. Implement Access Control Systems

Access control systems help manage who can enter your premises. These systems range from key card entry to biometric scanners and can restrict access to certain areas during specific times.

For out-of-hours security, ensure only authorised staff can enter the building. Regularly review and update access permissions to prevent former employees or unauthorised individuals from gaining entry.

4. Install CCTV Cameras

CCTV cameras serve as both a deterrent and a way to collect evidence if a security breach occurs. Position cameras at key points around your business, like entrances, exits, and vulnerable areas.

Ensure your CCTV system is high quality, with night vision, and that recordings are securely stored. Regularly check that all cameras are working properly and that the system is up to date.

5. Secure Valuable Assets

During off-hours, ensure valuable assets are stored securely. Safes, lockable cabinets, and secure storage rooms are useful for protecting cash, sensitive documents, and expensive equipment. If possible, move high-value items away from windows and visible areas.

6. Consider Mobile Security Patrols

If your business has large premises or is in a high-risk area, mobile security patrols can offer added protection. These patrols can monitor the outside of your property, check for suspicious activity, and respond to alarms. Often, the presence of security personnel is enough to discourage intruders.

7. Use Smart Technology

Adding smart technology to your security setup can make a big difference during out-of-hours. Smart locks, remote CCTV monitoring, and integrated alarm systems can all be controlled via mobile apps, allowing you to keep an eye on your business from anywhere.

These systems can send alerts to your phone if something unusual is detected, so you can respond quickly if needed.

Need Advice on Securing Your Business?

Vanguard Services provides tailored security solutions to meet your business needs. From advanced technology to professional mobile patrols, we can help make sure your premises are secure when no one is around. Visit www.vanguard-services.co.uk to learn more or to arrange a consultation.

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