Holiday Safety, Security & Asset-Protection Tips for Business Owners
During the busiest time of year, protecting your people, property, and profits is more important than ever. With strong safety protocols and the right insurance coverage, you can focus on serving customers and enjoying the season—knowing your business is protected, safe, and secure.
1. Strengthen Physical Security
Increase exterior lighting—especially in parking lots, loading areas, and entrances.
Check all locks, alarms, and access-control systems to ensure they’re functioning properly.
Trim landscaping to eliminate hiding spots near doors and windows
If closed for extended periods, rotate lights on timers and remove cash from premises.
2. Enhance Cybersecurity
The holiday season often sees increased online commerce—and cybercrime.
Update firewalls, software patches, and anti-virus tools.
Require strong passwords and MFA (multi-factor authentication) for all systems.
Beware of holiday phishing scams. Train employees to verify unexpected emails about orders, shipping, or payments.
Back up critical data and store it off-network.
3. Manage Inventory and Cash Flow Safely
Conduct year-end inventory counts and reconcile discrepancies early.
Implement strict cash-handling protocols, especially if sales volume increases.
Use drop safes and limit who can access them.
Monitor high-value items with cameras or locked displays.
4. Protect Employees and Customers
Review emergency plans: fire, severe weather, workplace violence, and evacuation routes.
Ensure walkways are clear of snow, ice, or trip hazards.
Schedule staff in pairs for opening/closing shifts.
Provide fatigue and stress awareness reminders—the holiday rush increases risk of accidents and errors.
5. Implement Seasonal Hiring Safeguards
If bringing on temporary staff:
Conduct background checks when appropriate.
Provide proper training on equipment, POS systems, and safety protocols.
Reinforce confidentiality and data-handling rules.
6. Update Transportation & Delivery Safety
For businesses with fleets or delivery vehicles:
Perform preventive maintenance before peak season.
Check tires, brakes, wipers, and emergency kits.
Remind drivers about no-texting policies and safe driving in winter weather.
Why Insurance Is Especially Important During the Holidays
The Holiday Season amplifies risk:
1. Higher Foot Traffic = Increased Liability: Slips and falls, crowd injuries, and product-related incidents spike this time of year. General liability insurance helps protect against costly claims.
2. Increased Theft & Burglary: Shorter daylight hours and busier stores attract criminals. Commercial property insurance and crime coverage protect inventory, cash, and equipment.
3. Seasonal Employees Increase Exposure: More staff means more chances for accidents or errors. Check your Business Liability insurance.
4. Supply Chain & Cyber Risk Surge: More online orders → more data exposure and ransomware attempts. Cyber liability insurance covers data breaches, system recovery, and customer notification costs.
5. Weather-Related Damage Is More Common: Winter storms can cause:
Roof damage
Burst pipes
Power outages interrupting business
Business interruption insurance helps cover lost income and keeps operations afloat while repairs are made.
6. Peace of Mind During Time Away: Many owners take time off or close temporarily during the holidays. Insurance provides a safety net if something goes wrong while leadership is off-site.