Small companies are being warned they face an increased risk from theft and fire in the run-up to Christmas and new year.

With many offices shutting down over the festive period, firms run the risk of break-ins and even theft from staff and should review their security and insurance arrangements in the days before Christmas.

Organisations selling products to the public are also at risk of theft from members of the public and unscrupulous employees, who may have been taken on for the seasonal rush.

“The threat from shop thieves always exists, so it is a good idea to carry out a risk assessment,” says Professor Martin Gill, professor of criminology at the University of Leicester. “Think like a thief and take steps to reduce the risk.

“One thing shop thieves don’t like is lots of attention so good customer service and effective theft deterrence can be rolled into one,” he added.

According to the research conducted by insurance firm More Th>n, many retailers and other customer-facing organisations also face a higher risk of fire at this time of year, with nearly 10% of all retail fires occurring during the Christmas period.

“Fire incidents are one of the biggest risks for retailers,” warned Mike Bowman, head of insurance at More Th>n Business. “Increased stock levels coupled with faulty fairy lights and decorations are literally an explosive combination.

“Retailers need to ensure they’re properly protected , otherwise profits could be seriously affected and, in some cases, shops will have to stop trading,” he added.

The insurance firm offers the following tips:

Reducing seasonal theft

• Make sure your security systems are fully operational
• Keep a close check on your stock
• If you do employ seasonal staff make sure they are from a reputable source
• Ensure you have nominated staff to respond to calls over the festive season
• Ensure your insurance policy includes an adequate seasonal increase

Reducing the risk of fire

• Keep tinsel and similar materials away from sources of heat
• Make sure portable appliances are safe by checking the wiring, condition of plugs, sockets and trailing electrical cables and don’t leave them on overnight
• Don’t use candles or other naked flame decorations
• Don’t overload sockets
• Provide appropriate fire extinguishing appliances and ensure your staff are properly trained in their use
• Make sure any additional Christmas stock and that for New Year sales are not kept near electric light fittings in stock rooms/store areas
• Make sure your Fire Risk Assessment is complete