Fall Safety and Security Tips: Stay Prepared as Seasons Change

As we transition into fall, it’s important to stay prepared for the safety and security challenges that come with the season. From wildfire prevention to access control and adapting to changing criminal activities, we’ve compiled essential tips to help you protect your property and residents.

Wildfire Prevention and Preparedness

Even as the weather cools, the risk of wildfires in the Pacific Northwest remains a concern. Protecting your property and ensuring the safety of those around you starts with understanding best practices for wildfire prevention.

• Maintain a Fire-Safe Space: Clear away dry leaves, branches, and any other flammable materials from around your buildings and property. Regularly trim trees and shrubs to reduce fire hazards.
• Prepare for Evacuation Orders: In case of an emergency, always be ready to act quickly. Keep an eye on local alerts and evacuation orders. Have a plan in place for your team and post routes for residents.
• Pack Go-Bags and Essentials: Prepare go-bags with essential items, such as important documents, medications, basic first aid supplies, and a change of clothes. Ensure each member of your team knows where bags are located. Encourage residents to do the same.
• Create Emergency Access Routes: Ensure that driveways, parking lots, and access roads are clear for emergency vehicles to reach your property quickly. Keep routes free of obstructions.
  

Access Control in Multi-Family Residential Properties

Access control is crucial to ensuring the safety of all staff, residents, and your property when the weather becomes colder.

• Secure Entrances: Remind residents not to hold the door open for strangers. Access control systems should be checked regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly.
• Community Awareness: Encourage residents to be vigilant and report any unusual activity. Creating a sense of community can help everyone feel safer and more secure.
• Compassionate Communication: Address any concerns about individuals seeking shelter from the elements with sensitivity. Consider working with local organizations to provide resources or information on shelters and services available in the area.

Fall Seasonal Changes and Crime Patterns

Fall may bring with it a change in criminal activities. You can safeguard your property and remain ahead of the game by being aware of these patterns.

• Increased Darkness: With shorter daylight hours, ensure that all outdoor lighting is in good working order. Well-lit areas can deter criminal activity.
• Keep Vehicles and Property Clear of Valuables: Remind residents and employees to remove valuables from their vehicles or store them out of sight. Secure any outdoor equipment. Thefts can increase during darker months when cars and areas are left unattended for longer periods.
• Weather-Related Risks: As rain and wind become more frequent, ensure that all security equipment, such as cameras and alarms, functions properly.
• Monitor Changing Patterns: Monitor any changes in local crime trends and adjust your security measures as needed. This could include increasing patrols or adding guard services.

Stay Informed and Prepared

These tips are designed to help you stay safe, sound, and secure during the fall season. For more fall safety and security tips, be sure to check out our previous blog. By staying informed and proactive, you can help protect your community and property as the seasons change.