The End-of-Summer Home Security Checklist for Myrtle Beach Homeowners

As summer winds down in Myrtle Beach and cooler evenings begin to creep in across Horry and Georgetown County – or so we hope -, it’s easy to forget about home security. That is why we’ve created this end-of-summer home security checklist!

The transition between seasons is actually one of the most important times to assess your home or business security systems. With schools now back in session, routines shifting, and fall storms approaching, September is the perfect time for a full end-of-summer security check.

At Strand Security, we help homeowners and property managers keep their systems updated, optimized, and storm-ready.

Use this guide to walk through 6 smart steps that will ensure your home or business stays secure before the busy fall season kicks in.

1. Recheck Doors, Locks, and Entry Points

Cooler weather means your air conditioning system might be ready to take a break, and you will want to open doors and windows to let the fresh air in, which can cause wear or loosening over time.

Before fall starts in earnest, inspect all locks and entry points. Tighten or replace any worn hardware, especially on garage doors and patio sliders.

Make sure door sensors on your smart security system are responding properly and sending alerts when triggered.

If you’ve given out access codes to guests, house sitters, or vacation renters over the summer, now is a good time to change them or reset your smart locks.

2. Test Cameras and Clean Lenses

Summer storms, pollen, and humidity can wreak havoc on your outdoor security cameras.

Check each camera for proper function and clean the lenses using a microfiber cloth to remove dust and moisture buildup.

Review your camera footage to ensure angles are still accurate, especially if plants or outdoor furniture were moved during the summer. If your system stores video in the cloud, verify that storage is not maxed out and that all devices are syncing properly.

3. Refresh Motion Sensor Settings

People and pets move differently when school starts and daylight hours shorten. Update your motion sensor schedules to reflect your current routines.

If you previously disabled motion sensors for backyard play areas or pool zones, now’s the time to turn them back on. You can also adjust the sensitivity or coverage area if needed.

For businesses, consider reactivating overnight motion zones that may have been relaxed during summer hours or vacation closures.

4. Replace Batteries and Test Backups

Backup power is essential during hurricane season and fall storm surges in the Carolinas.

Use this time to replace batteries in keypads, window sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and any portable devices connected to your system.

Check the status of your system’s main backup battery—typically located in your control panel—and test it by simulating a power outage. If it doesn’t hold a charge or show a full battery level, it’s time for a replacement.

5. Review Smart Home Automations

If you’ve programmed lighting schedules, thermostat settings, or smart blinds for summer vacation or long daylight hours, it’s time for an update. Revisit your smart home app and adjust automation for earlier sunsets and cooler temperatures.

For example, set porch lights to activate earlier and adjust thermostats for fall comfort. Make sure your routines still match your family’s back-to-school or back-to-office schedule.

6. Schedule a Professional System Inspection

If it’s been more than a year since your last professional security system review, schedule a fall tune-up with Strand Security. We’ll inspect your wiring, test your devices, update firmware, and make sure your system is optimized for reliability heading into the cooler months.

A professional check can identify potential system vulnerabilities before they become real problems, especially heading into busy fall schedules or hurricane threats.

Stay Ahead of Fall Security Concerns

As fall arrives in Myrtle Beach, shorter days and cooler nights often lead to a spike in opportunistic crime.

Burglars know families are busier and homes may be empty more often during school hours and late afternoon activities.

Seasonal maintenance not only prevents system failure but ensures your family or business has maximum protection and peace of mind.

Need Help with Your End-of-Summer Home Security Checklist?

Strand Security proudly serves the Grand Strand, Horry County, and Georgetown County with residential and commercial security solutions. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help. From upgrading smart devices to full-system inspections and support, we make seasonal security simple.

Call us today to schedule your security review, or stop by our Murrells Inlet showroom to speak with a member of our team.