Why Now Is the Time to Review Your Autumn Security Plans

As summer starts to wind down, it is easy to get caught up in the final weeks of warmth and long evenings. But for many businesses, September brings a noticeable shift. Whether it is the back-to-school rush, shorter days, or the start of the run-up to the festive season, autumn tends to get busier and more demanding.

That makes late summer the ideal time to look ahead and check your security measures are still fit for purpose. Leaving it too late can mean scrambling for last-minute cover or finding gaps when it matters most.

In this guide, we explore a few things worth thinking about now, before the season changes.

Changes to Opening Hours

As daylight hours shorten, some businesses adjust their opening times. This might mean staff arriving or leaving in the dark, increased foot traffic at different times, or changes in delivery schedules.

• Review when your premises are occupied and when they are empty
• Make sure lighting is sufficient for darker mornings and evenings
• Consider additional support for lock-up or out-of-hours activity

Even small changes in routine can shift the risk, so it is worth planning ahead.

Managing Back-to-School or Term-Time Activity

For retail, hospitality, and some service providers, autumn brings an increase in demand. The back-to-school period can mean busier shops, more deliveries, and a higher volume of people passing through.

• Are staff numbers in line with your expected footfall?
• Do you need support with stock protection, especially during peak hours?
• Is your CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) set up to cover areas that may become busier or more vulnerable?

A proactive review now can prevent avoidable incidents during busy weeks.

Preparing for Seasonal Hiring

Many businesses bring in temporary staff during autumn to cope with extra demand. While this is essential in many industries, it also presents new challenges.

• Make sure all temporary staff receive proper security briefings
• Limit access to sensitive areas where appropriate
• Check that ID systems or visitor procedures are up to date

With new faces on site, having clear boundaries and procedures in place becomes even more important.

Reassessing Your Physical Security Measures

Now is a good time to walk the site with fresh eyes. Doors, windows, gates, and alarms should all be working as expected. What felt secure in summer may need reviewing once lighting and activity patterns change.

• Test alarms and access control systems
• Repair or upgrade outdoor lighting where needed
• Check locks, gates, and fences for signs of wear

If something is on your mind now, it is better to fix it than wait until it becomes a problem.