You’ve invested a lot in your business and protecting that investment should be a top priority. A security system allows you to monitor your property and deter potential threats. Even the mere presence of a security camera is often enough to dissuade would-be criminals or vandals.
Before you can begin to explore your security options, you need to fully understand the potential risks to your business. Depending on the nature of your business and location some risk factors might include:
• Vandalism
• Trespassing
• Breaking and entry
• Robbery and burglary
• Employee or custom theft
• Unauthorized access to restricted zones
The risks present at a neighbourhood pharmacy are different from those of an office building but both rely on security systems for protection. Understanding the specific threats to your business will enable you to choose the security system and features that offer you the proper protection.
Identifying Your Business’s Security Risks
A compressive security review is the first step in determining your security system needs. You can conduct a security review on your own, however, many companies specializing in security camera installation offer this type of review as part of their service.
This security review aims to identify areas of security weakness and potential threats. Examples of the type of things a professional would look for include:
• All entrances and exits
• The layout of your space
• The type of assets (good, information, employees) that need to be secured
• Current vulnerabilities
• Neighbourhood demographics, business hours of operation, and whether there are employees or security present beyond regular operating hours
The answer to these questions will enable you to design a security system tailored to your business’s specific risk profile and needs.
Deciding Which Security System Features You Need
Modern security systems are more than just alarms or simple cameras. Today’s systems comprise multiple features for enhanced function and added protection. Some popular modern features you may want to discuss with your security camera installation team can include:
• Type of camera system
• Security alarm
• Access control systems
• Monitored alarm systems
Camera Systems
Several security camera systems are available broken down into categories based on movement, size, shape, and unique features. The simplest most affordable systems are fixed camera systems strategically positioned to monitor a single location. While they cannot be remotely repositioned, they are very straightforward to operate.
Pan-tilt and zoom cameras combine the functionality of a fixed system with the benefits of a remote-operated zoom lens and 360-degree functionality. These cameras can be repositioned, follow a target, and zoom in on areas of interest from a user interface.
This is something you may want to discuss other security camera features with your installation team including wide-range lenses, night-vision, and thermal security cameras.
Security Alarms and Third-Party Monitoring
Alarms are one of the biggest deterrents to burglary and theft. Alarm systems can be designed with sensors triggered by motion, broken glass, or intrusion. Additional sensors can also alert responders in the event of a flood or fire.
Most alarm and camera systems come with optional third-party monitoring. While not mandatory, having surveillance on your business at all times can be a considerable advantage to busy business owners.
Why Professional Security System Installation Matters
DIY security systems had begun flooding the market in the last several years. While they may offer adequate protection for some small businesses, they cannot replicate the experience and confidence that comes with professional installation. Opting for professional installation assures that the system has been set up correctly and addresses all vulnerabilities. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing you have someone you can rely on for continued support.
When your business security is at stake, the befits of professional security camera and alarm system installation outweigh the costs.
