December Safety Tips for Small Businesses: Reducing Risk During the Holiday Season
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December is one of the busiest—and most vulnerable—months of the year for small businesses. Between reduced staffing, irregular schedules, early closures, and longer after-hours periods, the holiday season creates perfect conditions for theft, vandalism, and safety lapses.
Smart business owners don’t wait for an incident to act. They prepare ahead of time by tightening procedures, checking systems, and working with experienced security system companies that understand seasonal risk.
Why the Holidays Increase Security Risk
Holiday cheer doesn’t stop criminals from taking advantage of opportunity. In fact, December often brings a noticeable increase in after-hours incidents.
Key risk factors include:
- Early closings and full holiday shutdowns
- Fewer employees on-site
- Irregular work schedules
- Predictable dark or empty buildings
“Criminals look for quiet buildings and predictable patterns—December offers both if businesses don’t plan ahead.”
After-Hours Theft and Vandalism: The Biggest Holiday Threat
When businesses close early or shut down entirely for holidays, after-hours risk spikes.
What Criminals Look For
- Dark storefronts
- Unchecked side or rear doors
- Unmonitored parking areas
- Unarmed or outdated alarm systems
Professional security system companies design systems specifically to address these vulnerabilities through layered protection.
How to Reduce After-Hours Risk
- Ensure all entry points are alarmed
- Verify cameras cover doors, windows, and loading areas
- Use lighting to eliminate dark zones
- Confirm alarm monitoring is active during closures
Managing Irregular Holiday Work Schedules Safely
Holiday staffing often looks nothing like the rest of the year. Employees may come in late, leave early, or work unusual shifts.
This creates challenges for:
- Access control
- Alarm arming and disarming
- Accountability
Access Control Matters More in December
If former employees or temporary workers still have access credentials, the risk increases dramatically.
Best practices include:
- Temporarily adjusting access schedules
- Removing access for seasonal or departing staff
- Limiting access to only what’s necessary
“Every door should know who’s allowed in—and when.”
Alarm Checks Before Early Closures or Holiday Shutdowns
One of the most common holiday mistakes is assuming the alarm system will “just work.”
What to Check Before Closing
- Are all zones properly armed?
- Are motion detectors unobstructed?
- Are doors and windows closing securely?
- Is monitoring active and up to date?
Experienced security system companies recommend testing alarms before holiday closures—not after something goes wrong.
Assign Responsibility
Make sure one person is clearly responsible for:
- Arming the system
- Verifying alerts
- Serving as the emergency contact
Video Surveillance as a Holiday Safety Tool
Cameras do more than record—they deter.
Visible video surveillance:
- Discourages break-ins
- Provides evidence if incidents occur
- Allows remote check-ins during closures
For business owners traveling during the holidays, remote access offers peace of mind without disruption.
Fire and Life Safety Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
Holiday decorations, space heaters, and altered schedules can increase fire risk.
December safety reminders:
- Keep exits clear of decorations or inventory
- Avoid overloaded outlets
- Confirm fire alarms and monitoring are active
- Ensure emergency lighting is functional
Life safety systems deserve the same attention as security systems during the holidays.
Why Working With Local Security System Companies Matters
Local providers understand seasonal business patterns, response coordination, and regional risks. When something goes wrong during a holiday, local support makes all the difference.
Professional security system companies don’t just install systems—they help businesses prepare for real-world conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I change my security settings during the holidays?
Yes. Temporary schedule adjustments reduce false alarms and improve protection.
Is it safe to fully shut down my system during holidays?
No. Systems should remain active and monitored even when the business is closed.
Can I monitor my business remotely while traveling?
Yes. Modern systems allow secure remote access via mobile apps or web portals.
A Safer Holiday Season Starts With Preparation
The holidays should be a time to focus on customers, employees, and family—not unexpected emergencies. With proper planning and support from trusted security system companies, small businesses can reduce risk and close out the year safely.
If your business is preparing for early closures or holiday downtime, contact a trusted local security system company like Security Instrument for a complimentary holiday safety and security check.
