Winter Security Tips: How to Protect Your Property in Snow and Ice

As winter weather sets in across Ohio, business and property owners face more than just frozen sidewalks and frosty windows. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can impact the performance of your security systems; leading to false alarms, limited visibility, or even equipment failure when you need it most.

At NWOSS, we help clients prepare for the cold season with smart, preventive strategies to keep their systems working reliably all winter long. Whether you manage a commercial building, manufacturing facility, or school campus, this winter-ready checklist will help protect your property from both the elements and potential security threats.

Why Winter Weather Poses a Risk to Security Systems

Cold weather and snow create a unique set of challenges:

Icy build-up can block security cameras or sensors
Temperature drops may affect battery life and wiring
Snowstorms and wind can cause power outages and false alarms
Slippery entryways increase liability risks and safety concerns

Without proper planning, your security system could become less effective, just when you need it most.

Winter Security System Checklist

Here’s what you can do now to make sure your system performs reliably through snow, sleet, and ice.

1. Inspect Outdoor Cameras and Clear Snow Buildup

Snow and ice can block or blur the view from exterior surveillance cameras. Be sure to:

Clear snow from camera lenses and housings
Check for condensation or fog inside weatherproof enclosures
Trim nearby trees or branches that may droop with snow
Consider upgrading to weather-rated cameras with heated housings or auto-defogging lenses for enhanced winter performance.

2. Test Sensors and Alarm Components

Extreme temperatures can impact motion sensors, glass break detectors, and contact sensors on doors and windows. Make sure to:

Check for proper alignment of door/window sensors
Test battery-powered devices (cold drains batteries faster)
Look out for false alarms caused by freezing wind or vibrations

If you're experiencing frequent false alarms, NWOSS can help troubleshoot and adjust your system settings to prevent disruptions.

3. Ensure Proper Exterior Lighting

Shorter daylight hours mean your property spends more time in darkness. Proper lighting not only improves visibility on cameras but also deters trespassers. Check that:

Motion-activated lights are working correctly
Bulbs are weather-rated and replaced if dim or flickering
Fixtures are positioned to avoid glare on security cameras

4. Prevent Slips, Falls, and Liability Issues

Winter hazards extend beyond break-ins. Use your system to help mitigate safety risks like:

Monitoring icy walkways with cameras
Verifying timely snow removal by contractors
Reviewing footage in case of accidents for liability protection

NWOSS can help ensure cameras are positioned effectively to monitor high-traffic or high-risk areas like entrances, sidewalks, and parking lots.

5. Review Backup Power and Battery Life

Power outages are more common in winter storms. Make sure your system is ready by:

Verifying battery backups for your alarm panel and surveillance equipment
Testing your uninterruptible power supply (UPS) if applicable
Considering a generator for extended coverage

Professional monitoring from NWOSS continues to operate during outages, ensuring your system never goes offline.

6. Update Access Control Settings for Seasonal Schedules

If your building hours change during the winter or holidays, update your access control system to reflect:

Modified lock/unlock schedules
Temporary staff or vendor access
Credential removals for seasonal workers

Our team can help reprogram your system so that no one has access they shouldn’t.

Stay Safe, Stay Secure This Winter

Don’t let snow and ice compromise the security of your property. With a little planning and the right support, your system can withstand the worst of winter—while keeping your people, assets, and operations protected.

NWOSS offers full-service security solutions, including:

Cold-weather camera installations
Fire and intrusion alarm monitoring
Access control and video integration
Responsive local support