As the temperature drops and winter approaches, it's not just your wardrobe and home that need attention! Your external security systems also require some winterising to ensure they function optimally during the colder months. Cold weather, snow, and ice can affect the performance of these systems, potentially leaving your property vulnerable.
Throughout our blog, we'll guide you through the steps to prepare your external security systems for the winter season, ensuring your peace of mind and the safety of your property.
Inspect and Maintain your CCTV Systems
CCTV Cameras are the first line of defence for many properties. Before winter arrives, it's crucial to inspect and maintain your cameras:
Clean the lenses: Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on camera lenses, affecting image quality. Clean the lenses with a soft cloth to ensure clear footage.
Check camera housing: Ensure that camera housings are tightly sealed to protect against moisture and cold air. Any cracks or gaps should be addressed promptly.
Adjust angles and lighting: As the days get shorter, adjust camera angles and lighting to account for changing lighting conditions. Proper lighting will improve the quality of recorded footage.
Backup power source: Consider a backup power source like a battery or generator to ensure your cameras remain operational during power outages, which are more common in winter.
Secure your Access Control Systems
Access Control Systems play a crucial role in managing who enters your property. Here's how to prepare them for colder weather:
Test keypads and card readers: Ensure that all access control devices are in good working order. Cold temperatures can affect electronic components, so thorough testing is essential.
Lubricate locks and hinges: Apply lubricants designed for cold weather to locks and hinges to prevent freezing or stiffness.
Insulate control panels: Protect control panels from extreme cold by insulating them with weatherproof enclosures or covers.
Protect your Alarms
Intruder Alarms detect unauthorised entry into your property. Here's how to protect them during the colder months...
Clear vegetation: Trim bushes and trees around sensors to prevent false alarms caused by swaying branches laden with snow or ice.
Check sensor alignment: Ensure that sensors are properly aligned and not blocked by snow drifts or ice accumulation.
Test backup power: Like surveillance cameras, backup power for your alarms is crucial during power outages. Test batteries and generators regularly.
Maintain Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting is a deterrent and safety feature for your property. Here's how to maintain it during winter:
Replace bulbs: Replace any burnt-out or dim bulbs, as visibility is essential during the longer nights of winter.
Install motion-activated lights: To conserve energy and enhance security, consider installing motion-activated lights that only turn on when needed.
Clear snow and ice: Routinely remove snow and ice buildup around outdoor lighting fixtures to maintain their functionality.
Monitor your Remote Access
If you have remote access to your security systems, take advantage of it during the winter months:
Regularly check remote access: Ensure you can monitor and control your security systems remotely to address any issues promptly.
Update software: Keep security software and firmware up to date to protect against vulnerabilities that could be exploited during winter.
Preparing your external security systems for the colder months is essential to maintain their effectiveness and ensure the safety of your property.
Regular maintenance, testing, and winterising measures will go a long way in preventing security system failures during adverse weather conditions. By following these tips, you can enjoy peace of mind throughout the winter season, knowing that your property is secure and protected.