Darker evenings, wet weather and busier trading periods put extra pressure on your security systems. Use this UK-specific checklist to prepare your sites before the clocks go back on 26 October 2025.
Before the clocks go back (do this by 26 October 2025)
Access control:
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Check the current time on your system is correct and DST is enabled, then check the time again after the clock change to ensure its right.
- Check door unlock/lock times, holiday calendars, and time zones to ensure they are still accurate and relevant.
- Review visitor/contractor windows and any out-of-hours lockdown profiles.
CCTV:
- Verify device time sources, time zone and DST rules.
- Confirm recording schedules align with any new business hours and patrols.
- After the clock change spot-check footage timestamps against a known time source.
CCTV (VSS): Night-time performance & weatherproofing
- Optics & enclosures: Clean lenses; check housings and seals.
- Low-light quality: Clean lenses for spiders webs to reduce IR glare, ensure that any foliage which is blocking the view of the camera is cleared.
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Coverage & lighting: Walk the site at dusk. Identify dark areas in yards, car parks and footpaths. Adjust camera angles and add/repair lighting as needed.
- Monitoring & response: If you use remote monitoring, test alarm rules, audio challenge and escalation paths, plus check your keyholders are correct and they know their password.
Fire detection & alarms: Stay compliant with BS 5839-1
- Six-monthly service: Arrange your routine inspection by a competent provider and keep service records updated.
- Changes on site: If shelving layouts, doors or work areas have changed, reassess detector coverage.
- Evacuation planning: Shorter daylight can slow evacuation. Check signage, external lighting and assembly points.
Intruder alarms & monitoring
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Keyholder details: Confirm ARC keyholder details and contact numbers and response instructions are current and keyholders know their password.
- Dual-path monitoring: Plan any PSTN → IP migrations to avoid loss of signalling.
- False alarm reduction: Check detectors and cameras and external beams are clean and free of cobwebs.
Access control
- Time profiles: Align opening/closing times with seasonal trading, shift patterns and school terms.
- Permissions audit: Remove any old users.
FAQs
How often should our fire alarm be serviced in the UK?
At least every six months by a competent provider, plus weekly call-point tests logged internally.
Do the clocks going back affect CCTV and access control?
Yes. Update device time settings and access control schedules before 26 October 2025 to avoid incorrect timestamps and door timings.
We still rely on PSTN for alarm signalling—what next?
Plan an upgrade to IP/dual-path monitoring to maintain resilience and insurer compliance. Get a Quote
Our engineers will check CCTV (VSS), intruder alarm, access control and fire alarm systems and schedule any upgrades.
Call: 02476 341809 or Get a Quote
About MES Systems
SSAIB-certified fire and security specialists, protecting UK businesses for 35+ years from our base in Nuneaton. We design, install, monitor and maintain a wide range of modern security and fire safety systems for businesses and homes.
