On-site Security is a strong deterrent to crime. An active presence basically tells anyone who is thinking about theft to pick a different target. Onsite security reduces crime almost 10 fold and having an active presence is the top option. If constant security is not a possibility visible security patrols are a great cost effective option as well.
Security Patrols are an excellent option is full time security is not an option. Patrol are consistent but randomized that make them visible and again show a potential Grinch that this is not the target to pick. This is also a signal to customers that this area is being watched. While nothing is 100% effective visible patrols reduce crime and promote confidence that the area is safe for shoppers.
Double Check Surveillance Cameras While intrusion alarm systems are important, it’s critical that you ensure that everything works as it should. For instance, you need to examine your video surveillance cameras to see whether or not they are working well enough to capture usable images should thieves decide to target your commercial property. If you were thinking about repositioning your video surveillance cameras, the lead up to the holiday season is a good time to do so.
Check for Obstructions Perhaps you’re the sort of commercial business owner who likes to go all-out with decorations during the holiday season. If you are, be sure that any decorations or displays that you set out don’t obstruct your intrusion alarm systems or CCTV cameras. Anything blocking your video surveillance cameras or motion detection sensors could trigger false alarms or compromise your system if thieves break into your property.
Update Notification List When the holiday season rolls around, you might need to update your notification list so that the intrusion alarm system service provider knows whom to call in the event of an alarm or emergency. Be sure to forward an updated holiday list to your service provider, and let the service provider know if and when you will go back to the regular notification list.
Monitor Live Feed During the holiday season, it’s a good idea to spend more time than usual monitoring the live feed from your video surveillance system. This can be done by yourself through an app on your phone, or through a monitoring provider who provides remote video monitoring and video verification of intrusion alarms.
Encourage Employee Vigilance Be sure to encourage your workers to be more vigilant during the holiday season. You should tell them to report any suspicious activity, and to keep their eyes and ears open at all times. This will definitely help to keep your commercial property, not to mention your human capital, safe over the holiday season.
