How to Winter-Proof Your Business with Smart Security

As winter approaches in Milwaukee, local businesses must prepare for the season’s unique challenges, particularly when it comes to security. With freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, your property and assets are at higher risk of damage, so it’s smart to invest in the right technology for your business security system.

Here are some security tips from the Fearing’s team to help you avoid winter-related issues, even in the harshest conditions.

1. Install Temperature Monitoring Systems

Wisconsin winters often include sudden temperature drops that can damage critical infrastructure. Frozen pipes, HVAC issues, and sensitive equipment malfunctions are all risks that can lead to costly repairs. Installing low-temperature monitoring systems allows you to track temperature fluctuations and respond quickly to any threats.

Detection of Sudden Drops: These sensors detect rapid decreases in temperature, which could indicate potential freezing.
Instant Alerts: If temperatures reach critical levels, you’ll receive instant alerts via mobile or email, ensuring you can act fast before significant damage occurs.
Cost-Saving Prevention: A proactive response can prevent the need for expensive emergency repairs or replacements.

2. Choose Cold-Weather Rated Security Cameras

Surveillance is just as important in winter as any other season. However, not all security cameras are built to withstand extreme temperatures. To prevent technology from malfunctioning, look for:

Wide Operating Temperature Ranges: Cameras with a temperature range as wide as -40°F to 140°F, ensuring your cameras remain operational throughout winter.
Weatherproofing: Invest in cameras with high ingress protection (IP66 or IP67 ratings), which guard against snow, ice, and moisture.
Built-In Heaters: Some advanced security cameras feature internal heaters, preventing frost or condensation buildup on the lens for clear footage even during snowstorms.

3. Strategic Camera Placement

Where you place your security cameras matters, especially in winter conditions. Strategic placement extends the longevity of your equipment and maintains its effectiveness.

Under Eaves or Overhangs: Position your cameras under roofs or eaves to protect them from heavy snowfall and ice.
Seal Cable Entry Points: Ensure cables are sealed correctly to prevent moisture ingress, which can lead to system failures during the cold months.

4. Address Power Concerns

Power outages during winter storms are always a possibility, and they can disrupt your security systems. To mitigate these risks, consider backup power solutions to help keep the system running smoothly, no matter how rough the winter weather gets.

Install Backup Power Supplies: A backup generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) keeps your cameras and alarms operational even during blackouts.
Hardwired Options: If your system relies on wireless connections, you might face disruptions in extreme cold. Consider hardwiring your most critical cameras and security systems for more reliable performance.
Solar-Powered Solutions: Solar-powered cameras with cold-weather batteries can maintain security for remote or hard-to-wire areas, as they can still charge under dim sunlight.

5. Integrate with Building Management Systems

Smart building technology is a powerful tool for getting winter-ready. You can automate responses and improve efficiency by integrating your security system with your building management systems.

Temperature Control: Pairing temperature monitoring with HVAC systems can automatically trigger heating adjustments when temperatures drop.
Emergency Power Integration: Connect your security system to backup generators for a seamless transition during power outages.

Winter in Milwaukee presents a unique set of challenges, but your business will operate smoothly and safely with the right security devices in place. Fearing’s offers the solutions needed to protect your business and employees.