Protecting Your Business During Severe Storms: How Power Outages Impact Security Systems
Widespread power outages as a result of the severe aftermath of Hurricane Helene hitting the Carolinas as an intense tropical storm have impacted nearly the entirety of the Upstate. While our offices are physically closed like many other businesses, and we are without power, GenX Security is STILL accepting service calls and running technician trucks to our customers who have power to maintain the security integrity of their businesses.
This storm has truly humbled us all and put a spotlight on how vulnerable we are to loss of power we typically take for granted. Therefore, we've created this special guide on protecting your business during and after severe storms. While it's not possible to implement preventative protective measures for this storm, we will show you what to do in the aftermath to get your security back on track and provide a guide to bolstering security in preparation for future events. We hope you find this guide helpful and stay safe during the clean-up and recovery from Hurricane Helene.
Protecting Your Business During Severe Storms: How Power Outages Impact Security Systems
When severe storms like hurricanes and tropical storms approach, the safety of your business is at risk in more ways than one. Not only do these storms bring strong winds and flooding, but they also cause power outages, camera obstructions, and compromise your security systems. As a business owner or manager, preparing your property for storm-related power disruptions is critical to safeguarding your assets and employees.
In this blog post, we address common concerns that arise during severe weather, including how to secure your business before shutting down or evacuating, ensuring your security system functions during power outages, and managing potential obstructions to cameras and sensors.
1. How Do Power Outages Affect My Security System?
Power outages are a primary concern during severe storms, as they can leave your business vulnerable if your security system is dependent on local electricity. Without a backup power source, systems like cameras, access control, and alarms may shut down, leaving your property exposed.
What can you do?
Install a backup power source: Invest in an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or a generator to ensure your security system remains operational when the grid fails. Many modern security systems have battery backup options that will keep essential components running for a limited time.
Use cellular or cloud-based monitoring: Ensure your alarm system is connected to a monitoring service through cellular data rather than a landline. Cloud-based services can continue to send alerts and status updates even if local power is lost.
2. How Are Security Systems and Other Technologies Affected by Power Outages?
When severe storms cause power outages, more than just your security system can be impacted. Other critical technologies that your business relies on, such as communication systems, access control, and building automation, may also stop functioning, potentially leaving your business unprotected and inoperable.
Effects of Power Outages on Security and Business Tech:
Security cameras: Wired security cameras rely on electricity to function. Without power, real-time surveillance stops, and recorded footage may be lost if cameras aren't equipped with backup storage options.
Access control systems: Key card or biometric access systems may fail during power outages, preventing employees from entering or exiting secure areas. This can pose safety risks, especially during emergency evacuations.
Alarm systems: If your alarm system isn't connected to a backup power supply, it may stop working during an outage, meaning any security breaches during the storm could go undetected.
Building automation and monitoring systems: Power outages can disrupt smart building systems, including HVAC, lighting, and centralized monitoring systems that are key for maintaining operational security.
Backup Power Solutions:
Battery backups: Most modern security systems come with battery backups that can last anywhere from several hours to a few days, depending on the system and battery size. This ensures that alarms, access control, and cameras continue to function during short-term outages.
Generators: For longer outages, a standby generator is the most reliable option. It can power not only your security systems but also critical business operations, keeping your communications, access points, and surveillance running smoothly.
Solar-powered security systems: In addition to traditional generators, some businesses are opting for solar-powered backup systems, which can provide extended power to critical systems without relying on fuel or electricity grids.
Ensuring your technology has a reliable power backup plan not only protects your business during storms but also minimizes downtime and disruptions to daily operations.
3. How Can I Secure My Business for a Shutdown or Evacuation?
If authorities advise evacuation or a temporary shutdown, it's crucial to ensure your building remains secure in your absence. Here’s what to consider before you leave:
Pre-Storm Security Checklist:
Activate alarm systems: Ensure that all doors, windows, and other access points are locked and that the alarm system is fully armed before leaving.
Protect physical assets: Move valuable items to secure, elevated locations to protect against flooding. Reinforce windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood to prevent wind and debris damage.
Surveillance camera placement: Double-check that your security cameras are secured and positioned correctly to capture footage, especially at key entry points. Use high-definition, weather-resistant cameras that can withstand extreme conditions.
4. What Happens if My Security Cameras Are Obstructed or Damaged from a Storm?
During storms, high winds, rain, and flying debris can obstruct or even damage security cameras, making it difficult to monitor your property effectively. Reduced visibility and loss of camera function can compromise your ability to identify suspicious activity.
How to Minimize Security Camera Obstructions:
Use weatherproof cameras: Invest in high-quality, weatherproof cameras designed for outdoor use, which can better withstand the elements.
Regular inspections: Before the storm season begins, have a professional inspect your cameras for any vulnerabilities, such as loose mounting or areas prone to debris buildup.
Clear camera lenses: After the storm passes, ensure that your camera lenses are clear of debris and water droplets to maintain clear footage.
5. How Can I Ensure My Business is Protected Against Security Compromise?
Storms not only bring physical damage but can also invite opportunistic crime. Criminals may target businesses weakened by storm damage, especially during a power outage or evacuation.
Steps to Reduce Risk of Compromise:
Remote monitoring: If you’re unable to access your business, remote monitoring systems allow you to view live footage, receive alerts, and even control security features like door locks from your smartphone.
Install motion detectors and floodlights: Power outages increase the chance of criminal activity, as darkened properties are easier to approach unnoticed. Motion-activated floodlights can deter intruders, while battery-powered or solar-powered security lights keep your premises illuminated.
Contract with a security monitoring service: A professional monitoring service can alert you and emergency responders to any suspicious activity at your business, even during power outages or extreme weather events.
6. What’s the Best Way to Restore Security After the Storm?
After a storm passes, business owners often focus on assessing physical damage and getting operations back online. However, restoring your security system should be a top priority.
Post-Storm Security Action Plan:
Test your system: Once power is restored, test all components of your security system, including cameras, alarms, and access control points, to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Assess damage: Check for any physical damage to cameras, locks, doors, and windows. If necessary, schedule repairs with your security provider immediately.
Update emergency contacts: Ensure your contact information for security providers, monitoring services, and local authorities is up-to-date to facilitate quick response times.
GenX Security Solutions is a Leading Commercial Security Integrator
Severe storms can disrupt more than just business operations—they can put your security at risk. By preparing in advance for power outages, ensuring your security system has a backup plan, and knowing how to manage obstructions and potential compromises, you can protect your business and maintain peace of mind even in the face of a natural disaster.
For more information on how GenX Security Solutions can help safeguard your business during severe storms, contact us today.
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