Bad weather can present unique challenges for maintaining strong security protocols. When dealing with extreme cold, wind, rain or snow, it’s important to take proactive steps to prevent any lapses that could compromise safety or enable unlawful activities. Here are some tips to prevent security lapses during bad weather.
Adjust Monitoring Approaches
Heavy rain or snowfall can obstruct visibility of key areas like entry points or perimeters. Be prepared to adjust your typical monitoring routines accordingly. Consider relying more heavily on video footage from your mobile surveillance trailer to maintain visibility. Position the mobile surveillance trailer to capture any blind spots created by the weather. You may also need to increase physical patrols by guards to compensate for spotty camera visibility. Provide proper protective rain gear or winter coats to equip them for the conditions. By proactively adapting your protocols, you can deter would-be trespassers or thieves during storms.
Secure Equipment Vulnerable to Weather
Take some time before the storm to ensure any essential security equipment that could be impacted by rain, wind, or snow is properly protected or stored safely. For example, high winds could topple temporary barriers or fencing if not properly secured. Remove gear stored outdoors that could become damaged. Ensure all outdoor cables and connections associated with your mobile surveillance trailer or camera setups are weatherized. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard by malfunctioning equipment right when you need it most to monitor the premises during severe weather events.
Remind Employees About Protocol Adjustments
When regular protocols need to be altered to accommodate storms, be sure to clearly communicate adjustments to all employees and staff. Go over any revised guard patrol routes, changes to entry point monitoring, and usage procedures for the mobile surveillance trailer. Make sure everyone understands their duties during inclement weather and is empowered to be extra vigilant when conditions are far from normal. Take the time to answer any questions employees have about protocol changes implemented for storms. It’s key for safety and security that everyone is on the same page.
By taking a proactive approach and making smart adjustments, you can prevent weather-related incidents from disrupting safety or security across your premises. Pay close attention to the forecast, so you have plenty of lead time to activate emergency protocols when faced with extreme cold, heavy precipitation, or powerful winds. According to Statista, in 2021, there were 11,504 burglaries reported on construction sites in the United States. Don’t fall victim to this statistic simply because of poor weather preparedness! If you’re looking to increase security at a construction or other commercial site, we can help. Call us today to discuss your options.