When the clocks go back, and the nights draw in, for most of us, it’s noticing the dark mornings and evenings as we make our way to and from work. For businesses though, that extra stretch of darkness can mean something more serious, with a longer window of opportunity for theft, vandalism or trespass. Both Autumn and winter bring different challenges that can affect business security, raising new and varied risks, with many companies leaving it too late to bolster the security needs.
At Sentinel Group Security (SGS), we see the same pattern each year. Warehouses holding more stock in the run-up to Christmas, council car parks and public spaces with fewer people passing through, and housing associations facing extra pressures. The cover of darkness makes all of them more tempting targets for any would be thieves.
Investing in technology, such as CCTV and alarms is an invaluable tool in the fight to combat threats, but on its own it tends to be reactive in its effectiveness. By the time a system alerts you, the damage may already be done. That’s where manned guarding services come into play, getting eyes and ears on the ground, strengthening the proactiveness of your security.
Manned Guarding – A Proven Deterrent
A uniformed, professional security guard at the door or patrolling the area is one of the simplest yet most effective theft prevention strategies you can put in place. Criminals think twice when they know they’re likely to be challenged. Unlike CCTV, which records incidents after they happen, manned guards actively prevent crime by being present, visible and ready to act.
Professional security guards offer:
- Early intervention – spotting suspicious behaviour before it escalates.
- Authority on site – challenging loiterers, intruders or potential trespassers.
- Reassurance – staff, residents and visitors feel safer when welcomed by a trained professional.
At SGS, our SIA-licensed officers are supported by integrated security systems such as GPS-verified patrols, live reporting through our MiSentinel Workforce Management System, and constant oversight from our 24/7 National Operations Centre. This combination of human presence and intelligence-led technology provides business protection solutions that work in real time.
Case Studies – Protection in Action
Sheffield Foyer – Housing Association Security
The Sheffield Foyer, part of The Guinness Partnership, provides accommodation for young people affected by homelessness. Vulnerable residents face higher risks in darker evenings, from many factors, including unauthorised visitors, to concerns about outdoor safety.
Since late 2022, SGS has deployed a dedicated security team to the site. Our officers not only deter intruders but also build trust with residents. Trained in calm communication and safeguarding awareness, they’ve reduced unauthorised access attempts and de-escalated tensions before they became escalated into serious incidents. Many residents now feel confident approaching our guards directly with concerns. This is an example of housing association security with SIA licensed guards creating both safety and community support.
South Gloucestershire Council – Mobile Patrols for Car Parks and Schools
Across South Gloucestershire, we protect more than 45 sites, including offices, libraries, schools and car parks. Each location faces unique risks in winter: deserted car parks attract antisocial behaviour, while schools require fast response during emergencies.
One notable incident came during a school lockdown. Within half an hour of receiving the call, our officers were on site, securing the perimeter and assisting staff to keep pupils safe. This highlights how mobile security patrols and static guards deliver flexible, reliable protection for councils. By combining rapid deployment with integrated scheduling, SGS ensures no site is left exposed, even during peak winter pressures.
Why Now is the Right Time to Review Security
Every sector experiences the darker months differently:
- Retailers and warehouses – busier in the run-up to Christmas, with higher stock levels and overnight deliveries. The benefits of manned guarding for warehouses during Christmas are clear: constant monitoring reduces theft risks and reassures staff working unsociable hours.
- Local government & public spaces – car parks, parks and libraries become less naturally supervised, increasing opportunities for antisocial behaviour. Mobile patrols for council car parks and schools can help maintain order and rapid response.
- Housing associations – must balance resident safety with sensitivity. SIA accredited officers provide reassurance without being intrusive.
- Offices and financial institutions – appear empty after dark, creating tempting opportunities for break-ins.
SGS tailors professional manned guarding to each environment. That might mean a permanent team at a residential site, nightly lock-up and patrols for council buildings, or temporary seasonal cover for retailers during Christmas trading peaks. Our ability to scale security up or down, with both long-term contracts and ad hoc cover, keeps security practical and cost-effective.
FAQs – Common Security Questions Answered
Why do businesses need manned guards in winter?
Because the darker evenings create longer windows for theft, vandalism and trespass. Manned guards provide visible deterrence and proactive intervention, keeping sites safe during vulnerable hours.
How do manned guards prevent theft?
By being physically present, they deter would-be criminals, challenge suspicious behaviour, and act quickly before incidents escalate. Their training also enables them to defuse situations calmly.
Is CCTV enough without security guards?
CCTV is an important tool, but on its own its reactive. By the time you’re alerted, damage may already be done. Manned guarding services combine real-time human judgment with technology, providing complete protection.
How can mobile patrols protect council spaces?
Mobile patrols for council car parks and schools ensure rapid response across multiple sites. Officers can lock and unlock buildings, check for damage, and deter antisocial behaviour, especially in poorly lit areas.
Secure Your Business Now
Businesses can’t afford to wait until risks become incidents. An empty car park at 7pm can look harmless until antisocial behaviour takes hold. An unstaffed reception may feel exposed on a dark winter afternoon. Night-time property safety is best achieved through prevention, not reaction.
With SGS, you get more than guards at the door. You get SIA licensed officers backed by technology, live monitoring and a management team committed to protecting your people, property and reputation.
Whether you want to hire manned security guards, contract mobile patrols for car parks, or simply compare business security services, SGS delivers solutions tailored to your needs.
Don’t leave your business exposed this winter. Contact Sentinel Group Security to book seasonal security cover or discuss long-term business security solutions UK with one of the best manned guarding companies in the UK.
Get in touch today:
www.sgs-ltd.com
0208 514 6565
enquiries@sgs-ltd.com
