SpyGearCo: Spy and Surveillance

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced a plan to decrease police presence in the city’s schools by limiting the situations in which law enforcement will be allowed to respond to matters that arise on school grounds.

Ecommerce retailers face many challenges as consumers become more dependent on the convenience of online purchasing.

The number of video surveillance cameras in London will hit an all-time high this year, according to CCTV.co.uk research. 

Global security concern remains at the highest level in 13 years, according to the 2019 Unisys Security Index report. 

These three guys die together in a tragic accident and they all go to heaven.   When they get there, St. Peter greets them and tells them, “We only have one rule here in heaven. Don’t step on the ducks.”   So, they enter heaven and sure enough, there are ducks all over the place. […]

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The Security Industry Association (SIA) has named Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Rep. Donald Payne, Jr. (D-N.J.) as the 2019 recipients of the SIA Legislator of the Year Award.

Video surveillance has long been a critical component of facility management and security plans, and it is only expected to grow.

What is the Best Access Control Management Software Door access management software is an essential part of your access control system. It allows you to manage the door readers in your organization, and then enter and manage all the people who will use the doors.   Most of the access management software available provides simple […]

The post How Access Control Management Software Works appeared first on Kintronics.

Passengers will be able to carry liquids and laptops through security at London's Heathrow Airport inside their hand luggage after new security scanners are installed.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law several bills related to enhancing school safety and expanding access to mental health resources.

Theft, fraud and losses from other retail “shrink” totaled $50.6 billion in 2018, up from $46.8 billion the year before as industry security executives said there is a growing overlap between loss prevention and cybersecurity efforts.

The FLIR Saros DH-390 Dome Camera is an outdoor perimeter security camera that combines multiple technologies. . .

Thief! Intruder! Sometimes, perimeter security puts you in contact with a variety of visitors, not all of them welcome, but how does one differentiate between visitors without making a bad first impression or creating a vulnerable situation?

U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) introduced the Secure Traveler Act, legislation that would expand enrollment in TSA PreCheck for individuals who have passed extensive background checks.

The Speco Tech SecureGuard® Active Shooter System allows businesses, schools, events and venues to act quickly by employing its surveillance video with mass notification features.

U.S. Senators Rob Portman (R-OH) and Gary Peters (D-MI) introduced the Protecting Faith-Based and Nonprofit Organizations From Terrorism Act (S. 1539) – to authorize $75 million annually for grants to nonprofits and faith-based organizations to help secure their facilities against a potential terrorist attack.

With San Francisco banning the use of facial recognition technologies for their local agencies, the debate on the efficacy of the technology has risen back into the national debate arena. 

Automated Network Attached Paging Provides Emergency Announcements Network attached paging systems are replacing the older analog paging systems. They are not only easier to install; they provide increased functionality. One of the most helpful features of this system is its ability to make automated announcements. You can push a button and make a pre-recorded page, […]

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Comparison of The Topography of Access Control Systems Access control systems used to be very complicated and difficult to wire.  The early access systems used a central control box that connected to all the doors. The wiring was complex and expensive to install.   The latest access control solutions bring all the control functions to […]

The post IP Door Access Systems Wiring appeared first on Kintronics.

Warehouses have a lot at stake — smuggling, theft, and terrorist activity all pose potential risks — and can threaten your business’ financial and legal well-being. This is why warehouse owners are usually known for their tight security practices.

Because warehouses are busy operations, day-to-day logistical issues can often take up a lot of time. However, it is crucial that warehouse staff and owners keep security in mind along with productivity. Follow these guidelines to stay ahead of security risks.

1. Access Control

When it comes to security in the warehouse, the first thing you want to control is who has access to the facility — and when they are granted access. In order to monitor this, you should implement a system with RFID-enabled ID cards for identification purposes for all staff and authorized visitors.

However, security shouldn’t start at your access control. Obviously your perimeter needs to be secured with fencing and a staffed gatehouse. Vehicles should always be supervised and parked away from the cargo areas. Pickups and deliveries should only take place in designated areas with proper security measures — but we will get there.

2. Facility Cameras

An effective warehouse security plan relies heavily on the security technology which is put in place. Surveillance cameras covering all sides, possible entrances and exits — and more — are essential to the security of the warehouse. Surveillance feeds should have 24-hour maintenance, with at least 30-day storage of the footage.

To ensure that you are able to recognize individuals being recorded on your cameras, it is important to have your system installed by a team of professionals. Factors like camera placement, programming, and type of security camera are not as easy to determine as you might think. Thankfully, some security companies offer budget savers like free consultations and virtual site visits.

3. Security Training

Security, surveillance, and threat awareness are not a one man job. In order to ensure the safety of your warehouse, it is necessary for all of your staff to understand their responsibilities when it comes to security. Communicating the importance of security checks to your staff is vital for the receiving, processing, storing and sending processes.

Employees are much more likely to report threats if they understand why and exactly how to do so. Because even small threats could signal a potential compromised shipment or develop into dangerous situations in the future. It goes without saying that regularly run drills for fires, alarms, and natural disasters are pivotal.

4. Cybersecurity

Now that you understand the importance of minimizing physical threats via proper security training and equipment, let’s talk about cybersecurity breaches. Protecting your warehouse’s data is especially important, due to the fact that most warehouses keep extensive logs of all activity in the facility. With records of shipments, transactions, drivers, and vehicles — a lot of information is at stake.

Passwords should always be changed every few months and control logs should also be examined regularly for suspicious activity. Any firewall access violations should be reviewed and confidential information should be stored with extra security. Sometimes it’s best to have an outside view of your cybersecurity plans.

5. Situational Awareness Software

In order to bridge the disconnect between alert and action, situational awareness software has been developed. This software can improve your ability to manage the growing number of threats that warehouses face.

Situational awareness platforms are designed to ensure that security threats are addressed quickly and effectively by tying together all relevant security assets and delivering relevant information to those in position to act. That way warehouse employees, security staff, management, and even truckers can all receive the same information at a relevant time.

The Importance of Warehouse Security

Are your security procedures up-to-par at your warehouse? Safety audits are important to hold regularly as they can help identify any potential risks and take note of what may need improvement. Implementing these practices will improve your warehouse security moving forward — and can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

The Texas Senate moved to abolish the cap on how many trained school teachers and school marshals can carry guns on public school campuses.

The United States Government is considering placing limitations on the Chinese surveillance giant Hikvision’s ability to buy American technology.

The U.S. Commerce Department would place Hikvision on an “entity list,” which requires American companies to get government approval before they conduct businesses with any foreign company listed. These limits would effectively place the company on a United States blacklist for potentially posing a threat to national security and privacy.

Hikvision products enable their clients to track anyone around the country by using technology that can analyze their facial features, body characteristics or gait. The emergence of new technology like artificial intelligence, speech monitoring and genetic testing is making monitoring networks, like the ones used by Hikvision, increasingly effective. The latest technology can also be used to monitor activity considered unusual by officials, such as people running or crowds gathering. Though useful for government officials to monitor its citizens, such technology can easily provide opportunities for these products to be intrusive on their customers’ privacy. Because of the economic, technological and geopolitical threat this could pose, the U.S. government is cracking down on technology companies like Hikvision and Huawei.

The fear of backdoors

After an investigation by Amazon on expensive servers that were installed for a company called Elemental by Super Micro Computer Inc. (commonly known as Supermicro), tiny microchips that weren’t a part of the boards’ original design were found nested on the servers’ motherboards. Amazon reported the discovery to U.S. authorities, sending a shock-wave through the intelligence community. After the ensuing probe, investigators determined that the chips, which were disguised as signal conditioning couplers, allowed the attackers to create a stealth doorway into any network that included the altered motherboards. These chips incorporated memory, networking capability and sufficient power for an attack. Essentially, anyone with access to the hidden backdoor could gain access to your private network — which includes your surveillance system.

These servers were discovered inside the data centers operated by dozens of other companies. As soon as these servers were installed and switched on, the microchip could alter the operating system’s core so it could accept modifications. This secret microchip also had the ability to contact computers controlled by hackers in search of further instructions and code.

Surveillance in China

In China, the surveillance industry is being used extensively to keep tabs on its own citizens. Their government is using surveillance technology, including facial recognition via CCTV cameras, to target certain ethnic groups who have accused the government of discriminating against their culture and religion. China has built what amounts to a police state in the country’s northwestern region — Xinjiang — which includes extensive surveillance powered by companies like Hikvision.

Chinese surveillance firms have also began exporting this technology to other nations like Ecuador, Zimbabwe, Uzbekistan, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, who also wish to monitor their citizens in a similar manner.

What this means for Hikvision customers

Hikvision is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of video surveillance products and is central to China’s ambitions to be the top global exporter in the surveillance industry. Due to the recent limitations and developments, American companies who currently supply products to Hikvision may have to receive government approval first. In the immediate future, businesses and individuals will still be permitted to buy Hikvision products. However, it is likely that over time these regulations will become stricter due to the threat that their products could pose to national security. Which means if you’re using a Hikvision system, you may lose support and the ability to buy replacement products from them in the near future.

Avoid Chinese knockoffs

We specialize in Geovision surveillance equipment, which is one of the most highly revered brands in the industry. With the growing interest in workplace security from companies throughout the nation, it’s important to consider where you’re getting your equipment. When you buy your equipment from untested or unreliable distributors, you’re taking more than just a security risk. Less reputable brands are infamous for advertising higher resolution than their cameras can output. Not to mention the features they advertise — like motion detection, facial recognition, infrared sensors and remote access — often don’t perform as well as they make it seem.

When you order your equipment from Camera Security Now, you’re not only getting the best brands in the industry — you’re also getting lifetime support, equipment and placement advice, installation and product-testing from a company with over 20 years of experience in the surveillance and security camera industry.

Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with CameraSecurityNow.com and follow us on social media. Join in the discussion by commenting below.

Lyft announced a new suite of safety features and programs for its riders.

A man was driving down the road when a policeman stopped him. The officer looked in the back of the man’s truck and said, “Why are these penguins in your truck?”   The man replied, “These are my penguins. They belong to me.”   “You need to take them to the zoo,” the policeman said. […]

The post Technical Jokes and Cartoons-52 appeared first on Kintronics.

A home invasion occurs every 18 seconds in the United States, so it’s little wonder that home security is an increasing concern for most homeowners. With the interest in home security camera systems growing, our own Andy Wendt recently sat down with Courtney Wheaton from ABC22/Fox45 to discuss the best options for home security camera systems and tips to help homeowners make the most of their systems. We’d like to thank Courtney for stopping by and for her interest in home security. Be sure to check out Courtney’s segment on ABC22/Fox45 and join us as we express our gratitude to her and the stations for the great service they are providing to the greater Dayton area by offering security camera advice to homeowners. Here are just a few of the advice, tips, and options we discussed with Courtney that can help you make your home or business more secure.

Focus on home security

According to a report by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, 60% of convicted burglars stated that they avoided homes with security systems, including visible cameras, yard signs, or stickers on doors and windows. With only 14% of homes in the US protected by a security system, there’s always a less-risky target nearby. Even a basic, DIY home security system can make your home less tempting to potential thieves.

For most homeowners, a doorbell camera system is sufficient for providing basic security. Homeowners can easily install most of these systems themselves, without much hassle. Since doorbell cameras are often small and undetectable from a distance, be sure to display any lawn signage or window stickers provided with your kit to help deter burglars from targeting your home.

Keeping an eye on your home

Most home invasions occur during daylight hours, usually between 10am and 4pm, when intruders are less likely to get caught in the act by a homeowner or their family. It’s not uncommon for burglars to make several passes by a home, often even ringing the doorbell, prior to forcing entry into your home.

A simple doorbell camera system can be a budget-friendly deterrent for criminals and provide peace of mind for homeowners. No matter what time of the day or night your doorbell is rung, an app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer notifies you when someone rings the doorbell and allows you to remotely view the person on your porch. Most versions even offer proximity motion-triggered recording, often as much as 30 feet from the camera itself.

In addition to helping ward off potential intruders, doorbell cameras can also help catch “porch pirates”, a particular concern during the holiday season, and can keep an eye on your mailbox when you’re traveling. And then there’s the priceless peace of mind of knowing who’s standing on outside your door when your doorbell goes off unexpectedly in the middle of the night.

At a price point of about $100 to $150, the price point of doorbell security camera systems makes them very pleasing to the wallets of homeowners. Doorbell security cameras are typically wireless and easy to install. Be sure to check your system to determine if its battery operated or needs to be connected to power. If your system is wired, the power comes from the same wiring that powers a standard doorbell. Within just a couple of hours, most homeowners can set up and begin viewing footage from their cameras.

Know your system’s limits

While doorbell camera systems provide a level of security for homeowners, it is important to know the limits of any system that you choose for your home. With proper research and planning, most homeowners can find the right home security camera system to help protect their residence.

While most doorbell cameras are wireless, hardwired power and data connections are more reliable. While your system should notify you when the batteries are low, batteries can die at any time, possibly leaving you without coverage. Another issue can be spotty internet, especially with Wi-Fi connections. If you frequently have issues with your Wi-Fi connection, you may want to seek out a system with a hardwired data connection.

Nearly all retail home security systems require that your cameras are connected to the internet. If you have a high-speed internet connection, this is usually not an issue. However, if you live in an area without access to high-speed internet, this is an issue that should be addressed prior to installing your system. Another important thing to remember is that anything on the internet is vulnerable to hackers and your camera’s feed could be viewed by others. With our commercial camera systems, your cameras do not require being connected to the internet.

With many home security systems, it may be surprising to learn that your recordings don’t always belong to you. While you can usually view the live images from your cameras at no additional charge, most doorbell and other home security camera systems actually charge a monthly fee in order to see playback of recorded footage. Some systems require a monthly fee for them to work at all. With one of our systems for businesses, the recording device, remote connection to that device, and all of the recordings belong to you with no additional monthly charge.

Home security systems, like doorbell cameras, are best when you need only one or two cameras, with most systems maxing out at four or eight cameras. For those who need a larger number of cameras or for several people to have access to the cameras, business security camera systems are usually recommended. We know how to manage systems of any size – whether you need 10 cameras or more than 128, our experts have the experience and skills needed to ensure that your system is set up properly and can scale up your system as needed. Our systems also offer access control and other features like PTZ, license plate reading, and RAID storage.

Our recommendations

To help homeowners make the right selection, we have tested several brands of residential camera systems, including Nest, Arlo, and Ring. All of these doorbell security camera systems are excellent options for homeowners with similar features and quality.

Our best in show recommendation goes to the Ring doorbell camera system. Ring is extremely easy to install, offers high-quality 1080p video day and night, features a slender design with changeable faceplates, and some versions even use pre-buffering technology to allow you to view even prior to motion triggering.

For our testers, the best wireless recommendation has to go to Arlo, which can support up 4 cameras. The battery life for Arlo cameras is surprisingly long, lasting at least two weeks, and is the solution we have used for our elevator cameras.

Trust the professionals

Andy Wendt, VP of Marketing, has been with our family of companies for more than 30 years and his experience and expertise in the security camera system industry is unparalleled. Andy and the team at Camera Security Now work closely with clients to find the best solution to meet their security needs, offering free site visits and security consultations for businesses, schools, and municipalities.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with CameraSecurityNow.com and connect with us on social media. Join the discussion by commenting below.

Our Most Popular Cities For Security Camera Installations

Camera Security Now is based in southwest Ohio and offers security camera systems and service throughout the country. Our headquarters is located in Middletown, Ohio and we are dedicated to the local communities and helping them protect their businesses, municipalities, schools and homes.

We have many loyal and satisfied customers throughout the area and are proud to be a part of the local tristate community. Some of our most popular cities for security camera installations include:

• Middletown, Ohio
• Dayton, Ohio
• Bellbrook, Ohio
• Springboro, Ohio
• Miamisburg, Ohio
• Englewood, Ohio
• Kettering, Ohio
• Centerville, Ohio

EchoGuard from Echodyne delivers multi-sensor ground and airspace security solutions for a range of governmental and commercial uses.

How safe is your business? Whether your enterprise is big or small in size, certain things can leave your company more susceptible to break-ins and theft. Do you know what to look out for?

We’ve compiled the top 50 ways your business is vulnerable to theft:

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1. You don’t have a high-quality video security system installed at your business
2. Your building exterior has poor outdoor lighting
3. You don’t have an access control system installed
4. You don’t do thorough background checks before hiring new employees
5. Employee theft
6. Your loading dock is un-monitored
7. Un-monitored cash registers
8. You keep cash in your cash registers when your business is closed
9. You don’t have a sign-in or check-in area for visitors and delivery personnel
10. Office computer passwords are not required to be changed every 30 days
11. Your office computers do not have anti-virus software installed
12. Access is not limited for shared folders and files on the network
13. The perimeter of your building is not being monitored
14. Your Wi-Fi network is unsecure
15. You don’t get copies of keys back from terminated employees
16. Visitors have access to your network hardware
17. Your facility does not have hidden cameras installed in high-traffic areas
18. Your warehouse is not being monitored
19. Supply rooms are left unlocked
20. You don’t run background checks on your cleaning service
21. Your front or back door is frequently propped open
22. Fraudulent claims
23. Fraudulent returns
24. You don’t keep important or sensitive documents in a locked area
25. You don’t shred discarded documents
26. Shoplifting
27. Till skimming
28. Embezzlement
29. In-accurate accounting
30. Credit card theft
31. Bad checks
32. You don’t perform schedule maintenance on your video security system
33. Not having a strong firewall for your network
34. Poor indoor lighting
35. Unprotected or unlocked windows
36. Unlocked or un-monitored cash offices
37. A clear view of equipment, cash registers or other items that are enticing to thieves
38. Liability claims
39. Benefits fraud
40. Your mail center is unsecured
41. You don’t require visitors to wear badges
42. You don’t require visitors to sign non-disclosure agreements
43. Big ticket merchandise is placed in windows or near doors
44. Not performing regular operating system updates on company computers and laptops
45. Unlocked computer equipment
46. Your company mobile phone is not password protected
47. You don’t monitor your business for signs of identity theft
48. You don’t limit access to company credit cards
49. You don’t watch your monthly credit card statements
50. You don’t require retail employees to sign in and out when working cash registers

Protecting your business and your assets from theft begins with educating yourself about the risks, and taking the necessary steps to reduce your risks, including installing a video security system.

Want to learn more about protecting your business? Call 877-995-2288 today to speak with our security experts, or get a free online business security needs analysis.

U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Doug Jones (D-Ala.) introduced the School Security Enhancement Act, a bill that would allow for Student Support and Academic Enrichment (SSAE) grants awarded to local communities to be used for evidence-based school safety technology and infrastructure.

As companies across the country continue to invest in workplace security, it’s no surprise that the number of companies offering security cameras is also growing in proportion. With the security of your employees, customers, vendors, equipment, and worksite on the line, it’s important to know that you’re in good company when selecting a company to install and service your security camera system. When it comes to providing our clients with the best experience, we know that high-quality customer service and professionalism are just as important as the products we offer. Here are just a few of the qualities that you should keep in mind when selecting a security camera system provider for your company.

The company you keep

As with most other things in life, businesses are often judged by the company they keep, so it’s important to make smart decisions about who you choose to associate your business with. Your security camera system vendor should always exceed your expectations, meet all deadlines, and provide the best service to you and your team.

Security Camera Now started as a regional provider of security camera solutions for businesses, local government, educational institutions, and individuals in the Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky areas. While we’ve grown over the last 30 years to offer nationwide service, we’ve never lost our commitment to our local area. From Dayton, Ohio to Covington, Kentucky, we offer state of the art surveillance solutions to help our clients meet their security needs.

Thanks to the Tech Amy, our trusted network of installers and servicers, we are able to provide nationwide installation and service with the same dedication and commitment to service and quality that we offer to our hometown companies. Since we started in 1998, we have been everywhere and have seen everything. There is no security job too big, no problem too hard to solve, and no destination too remote for our team.

It’s all about integrity

Integrity is the backbone of good business. When looking for a security camera system provider, your potential partner should have a reputation for meeting commitments, staying on budget, and open and honest business practices. When the security of your team is on the line, don’t trust their safety to an untrustworthy provider.

You need to know that your security camera partner is looking out for the best interests of your company. That’s why our process starts with a free security consultation to better understand your needs and to answer any questions you might have. We work with you to understand your biggest security concerns, the scope of the project, your budget guidelines, and other information that will help us guide you to the right security camera system solution for your project.

While our team can work off schematics and floor plans to create a plan for the project before installation can occur we need to see and inspect the area where cameras will be needed. While on-site visits can be costly and delay the start of your project, our free one-hour security consultation and comprehensive site review allow us to expedite the process for your project. We work with you to set up and conduct the visit via Skype, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, or other video chat program and your representative walks us through the worksite, allowing us to see any obstructions that the install team might encounter or to address any additional concerns. Instead of spending a few hours with a technician on-site, we work with your representative to complete a digital site visit in a fraction of the time.

We know that every company is striving to keep costs as low as possible on every project while still meeting goals. That’s why we work with you to keep your security camera system project costs in check. Our up-front itemized pricing lets you know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees or required monthly fee plans. While other vendors may low-ball their initial quote to get a foot in the door, our security consultation and site review allow us to provide you with an accurate quote for your project well in advance, which will come in handy when you need to get a capital expenditure request approved before the project starts.

A partner you can trust

Our commitment and promise to you are to always exceed your expectations for customer service and professionalism. From our 15-minute guaranteed response on quote requests to our quick response time on phone calls and emails, our commitment to service has always been a top priority. When you need a partner you can trust who is also a trusted partner in the community, look no further than Camera Security Now.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with CameraSecurityNow.com and follow us on social media. Join in the discussion by commenting below.

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors has enacted to ban the use of facial recognition technology by police and all other municipal agencies.

Mobile phones are the new Credential Have we reached the tipping point? Will our smartphones become our new door key? It all depends on the number of smartphones in the population. One survey indicates that 81% of the US population owns a smartphone. As the percentage increases, there will be enough smartphones to enable the […]

The post Mobile Credentials the New Key for Door Access Control appeared first on Kintronics.

What can we learn from the SEC and its aggressive agenda?

With a growing demand for security trained professionals, what can enterprises do to meet this demand?

A home invasion occurs every 18 seconds in the United States, so it’s little wonder that home security is an increasing concern for most homeowners. With the interest in home security camera systems growing, our own Andy Wendt recently sat down with Courtney Wheaton from ABC22/Fox45 to discuss the best options for home security camera systems and tips to help homeowners make the most of their systems. We’d like to thank Courtney for stopping by and for her interest in home security. Be sure to check out Courtney’s segment on ABC22/Fox45 and join us as we express our gratitude to her and the stations for the great service they are providing to the greater Dayton area by offering security camera advice to homeowners. Here are just a few of the advice, tips, and options we discussed with Courtney that can help you make your home or business more secure.

Focus on home security

According to a report by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, 60% of convicted burglars stated that they avoided homes with security systems, including visible cameras, yard signs, or stickers on doors and windows. With only 14% of homes in the US protected by a security system, there’s always a less-risky target nearby. Even a basic, DIY home security system can make your home less tempting to potential thieves.

For most homeowners, a doorbell camera system is sufficient for providing basic security. Homeowners can easily install most of these systems themselves, without much hassle. Since doorbell cameras are often small and undetectable from a distance, be sure to display any lawn signage or window stickers provided with your kit to help deter burglars from targeting your home.

Keeping an eye on your home

Most home invasions occur during daylight hours, usually between 10am and 4pm, when intruders are less likely to get caught in the act by a homeowner or their family. It’s not uncommon for burglars to make several passes by a home, often even ringing the doorbell, prior to forcing entry into your home.

A simple doorbell camera system can be a budget-friendly deterrent for criminals and provide peace of mind for homeowners. No matter what time of the day or night your doorbell is rung, an app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer notifies you when someone rings the doorbell and allows you to remotely view the person on your porch. Most versions even offer proximity motion-triggered recording, often as much as 30 feet from the camera itself.

In addition to helping ward off potential intruders, doorbell cameras can also help catch “porch pirates”, a particular concern during the holiday season, and can keep an eye on your mailbox when you’re traveling. And then there’s the priceless peace of mind of knowing who’s standing on outside your door when your doorbell goes off unexpectedly in the middle of the night.

At a price point of about $100 to $150, the price point of doorbell security camera systems makes them very pleasing to the wallets of homeowners. Doorbell security cameras are typically wireless and easy to install. Be sure to check your system to determine if its battery operated or needs to be connected to power. If your system is wired, the power comes from the same wiring that powers a standard doorbell. Within just a couple of hours, most homeowners can set up and begin viewing footage from their cameras.

Know your system’s limits

While doorbell camera systems provide a level of security for homeowners, it is important to know the limits of any system that you choose for your home. With proper research and planning, most homeowners can find the right home security camera system to help protect their residence.

While most doorbell cameras are wireless, hardwired power and data connections are more reliable. While your system should notify you when the batteries are low, batteries can die at any time, possibly leaving you without coverage. Another issue can be spotty internet, especially with Wi-Fi connections. If you frequently have issues with your Wi-Fi connection, you may want to seek out a system with a hardwired data connection.

Nearly all retail home security systems require that your cameras are connected to the internet. If you have a high-speed internet connection, this is usually not an issue. However, if you live in an area without access to high-speed internet, this is an issue that should be addressed prior to installing your system. Another important thing to remember is that anything on the internet is vulnerable to hackers and your camera’s feed could be viewed by others. With our commercial camera systems, your cameras do not require being connected to the internet.

With many home security systems, it may be surprising to learn that your recordings don’t always belong to you. While you can usually view the live images from your cameras at no additional charge, most doorbell and other home security camera systems actually charge a monthly fee in order to see playback of recorded footage. Some systems require a monthly fee for them to work at all. With one of our systems for businesses, the recording device, remote connection to that device, and all of the recordings belong to you with no additional monthly charge.

Home security systems, like doorbell cameras, are best when you need only one or two cameras, with most systems maxing out at four or eight cameras. For those who need a larger number of cameras or for several people to have access to the cameras, business security camera systems are usually recommended. We know how to manage systems of any size – whether you need 10 cameras or more than 128, our experts have the experience and skills needed to ensure that your system is set up properly and can scale up your system as needed. Our systems also offer access control and other features like PTZ, license plate reading, and RAID storage.

Our recommendations

To help homeowners make the right selection, we have tested several brands of residential camera systems, including Nest, Arlo, and Ring. All of these doorbell security camera systems are excellent options for homeowners with similar features and quality.

Our best in show recommendation goes to the Ring doorbell camera system. Ring is extremely easy to install, offers high-quality 1080p video day and night, features a slender design with changeable faceplates, and some versions even use pre-buffering technology to allow you to view even prior to motion triggering.

For our testers, the best wireless recommendation has to go to Arlo, which can support up 4 cameras. The battery life for Arlo cameras is surprisingly long, lasting at least two weeks, and is the solution we have used for our elevator cameras.

Trust the professionals

Andy Wendt, VP of Marketing, has been with our family of companies for more than 30 years and his experience and expertise in the security camera system industry is unparalleled. Andy and the team at Camera Security Now work closely with clients to find the best solution to meet their security needs, offering free site visits and security consultations for businesses, schools, and municipalities.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with CameraSecurityNow.com and connect with us on social media. Join the discussion by commenting below.

Johns Hopkins University School of Education is creating a new center to study school safety and student health.

Studies conservatively estimate that a business can prevent 25-50% of criminal activity by employing a simple video security camera and/or system. At today’s crime rates, such an investment will pay for itself in months.

Here are some of the MANY ways that a security system can protect your business:

1. Fraudulent Claims

Some people make a career out of staging “slip and falls.” Fortunately, many of these claims have been successfully disputed by businesses using CCTV cameras in public areas.

However, it’s equally important that companies place CCTV cameras in areas of the business not accessible to the general public, where most claims of employee injuries occur.

2. Supply Theft

Products stored on a shelf in plain sight may be difficult for a thief to access. However, stockrooms are typically out of sight and out mind of a business manager, and make perfect targets for internal thieves. It only takes a single hidden security camera to identify where your supplies are going.

3. Returns Theft

Goods returned to a store are often held in separate storage spaces, and don’t get the same level of security as newer goods. However, thieves will quickly recognize this lack of attention, and consider them to be easy pickings.

4. Tool Theft

A typical company will keep ample supplies of expensive gear on hand. For some businesses, this gear may be considered safe from theft due its uniqueness, which makes it difficult to pawn.

Thanks to the abundance of online auction sites and shoppers, anything can be sold rather easily. This makes no business immune from theft.

5. Office Creepers

An unfortunate byproduct of busy offices with lots of expensive technology lying around is something we call “office creepers.” Office creepers will stroll right into the heart of any business and take their pick of laptops, monitors, printers, etc.

6. Productivity Loss

Websense has released studies that show business loss due to low productivity far outweighs more traditional means of theft. Recognize everything from low productivity to employees running separate web-based businesses while on the clock and stop that activity with a small investment in video security.

7. More Productivity Loss

Certainly, there are more common acts of everyday productivity loss with extended conversations, extended breaks, low accomplishment of tasks, and so on. These are common to almost every business, but confronting these offenders can be difficult to do from a legal standpoint.

8. Crimes Against Others

Inside any business, the company is not the only one with valuables. These days, both customers and employees enter a business equipped with a variety of items commonly targeted by thieves — including cell phones, laptops, cash, and personal information. And as such, also customers can become a prime target for thieves. Losing the trust of customers can do considerable harm to an otherwise successful business.

9. Customer Experience

Many of our business customers who are focused on customer service will employ body-worn video equipment and mystery shop their own business to document the true customer experience. This tactic quickly roots out the bad apples, and provides very powerful training videos to educate the company’s employees of how to properly interact with the customer.

10. Outside Locked Doors

In these tough times, desperate folks are even targeting things you wouldn’t normally think as valuable. At the top of this new list is metal — anything metal, from cooper wires for lighting, aluminum from air conditioners, and even storm drain covers.

It’s impossible to be everywhere in a business at all times — but with video surveillance systems you can get very close. When items are missing and questions arise, a quick review of footage recorded sometimes weeks ago will uncover the facts and enable you to take quick and decisive action. Modern video surveillance solutions are not only easy to use and affordable, they are also easy to install.

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U.S. Representatives Norma J. Torres (CA-35) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) introduced H.R. 1629, the 911 Supporting Accurate Views of Emergency Services (SAVES) Act to reclassify 9-1-1 call-takers and dispatchers.

When you own or manage an apartment complex, security should always at the top of your list of concerns. There’s no better way to ensure the security of your residents and your apartment complex than to install a high-quality security camera system. A well-planned and professionally installed security camera system can not only help reduce crime and vandalism around your apartment complex property, but it can also help ensure the safety of your residents in common areas and help protect you from frivolous lawsuits. Here are just a few of the essential areas of your apartment complex that can benefit from a professional security camera system.

Crime prevention

If you’re a property manager or apartment complex owner, you know that criminal activity can have a significant impact on your community. A good video surveillance system not only helps deter criminal activity, but it can also make your community more sought after.

When it comes to crime, convenience and ease are key. When a potential burglar or vandal knows that an apartment community is being monitored by a security camera system, they are less likely to target your tenants. Additionally, when a crime does occur, you can turn your security camera footage over to police as evidence to help catch and prosecute the culprit.

Unfortunately, burglars and thieves from outside your community aren’t the only people you have to be concerned about. If you constantly receive complaints about a particular resident or have recurring issues in a specific apartment block, a security camera system can help you determine who is at fault.

For residents, knowing that the common areas of the apartment complex are being monitored may keep them from doing anything that could violate their lease – like bringing in an unauthorized pet or moving in an additional person who isn’t on the lease. Security camera systems can help bring peace of mind to all of your residents and prevent the bad behavior a few bad apples from ruining the community experience for everyone else. Read our article Security Cameras for Apartment Buildings to explore more ways that a security camera system can help improve the safety of your apartment community.

Mind parking lots

Parking lots are a common source of pain for many apartment managers and owners. From vehicle accidents and break-ins to slips and falls, training an eye on your parking areas can help save you some serious headache down the road.

When someone falls in your parking lot or takes a spill on a sidewalk, it’s human nature to want to assume that the story you’re hearing is the truth. However, personal injury lawsuits are one of the most common types of frivolous lawsuits that small businesses have to deal with each year, including apartment complex communities. If a tenant or visitor falls on your property, it’s often a matter of he said-she said, but security camera footage can provide a clearer picture of the facts.

With over 50% of lawsuits targeting small businesses, a security camera system can go a long way to protect your complex and your residents who suffer legitimate injuries. For outdoor areas like parking lots, be sure to select weatherproof IP cameras that can withstand even the coldest temperatures and strongest storms.

Keep common areas safe

Common areas like pools, fitness centers, laundry areas, and secure mailbox areas are a luxury that many apartment complex residents have come to expect. Without on-site security or security cameras, some residents may be hesitant to visit these areas alone or after dark. Keeping your residents safe in these areas, especially at night, is essential to providing the best living experience in your apartment complex.

Pools and fitness centers can often be magnets for injury and nefarious incidents. Ensuring that residents and their guests know that the area is being monitored by a security camera and that the footage is reviewed can help reduce the number of complaints and issues you have in these areas significantly. For example, residents will be less likely to use the pool outside of posted hours or to engage in non-sanctioned activities in the pool area. Check out Security Cameras for Swimming Pools for some of our tried-and-true tips for keeping your pool safe and secure.

For mail areas, security cameras provide an added sense of protection during the holiday season for package deliveries. In laundry areas, security cameras can pull double duty making residents feel safe from nefarious actors and protecting their clothing and other property they may leave behind as they enter and exit the facility. Offering more amenities to residents allows you to charge a premium on rents and attract higher quality tenants and installing a high-quality security camera system helps you protect that investment.

Work smarter

Being an apartment community manager or complex owner is demanding and stressful enough without having to spend extra hours sitting in the leasing office reviewing security camera footage. Remote viewing options allow apartment owners and managers to keep an eye on their property at all times from anywhere in the world.

Remote viewing also allows you to respond to incidents in real time when you receive a complaint from a tenant about a neighbor or loiterers. You can even allow police access to your security camera feed to allow them to have a better handle on a developing situation or emergency at your apartment complex.

Ready to talk security?

Current and potential residents typically rate safety as a top priority when looking at apartment complexes. Your residents are more likely to stay longer and you’ll attract higher quality applicants when you let your tenants know that you’re putting their safety first by installing a security camera system. In return, you’ll see less turnover and a willingness to pay slightly higher rents in exchange for increased safety and security.

Ready to talk about your new security system? Visit CameraSecurityNow.com for some of the best rates in the business on surveillance cameras for apartment buildings. Get a quote for all of your security camera needs and schedule your free consultation today.

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When responding to emergencies, police and firefighters shouldn’t have to worry if their cell phones will work or if they’ll be able to view surveillance camera footage of the incident without lag. That’s why FirstNet – a nationwide wireless network on Band 14 that is dedicated for use by emergency personnel and first respondents – was created. Read on to learn how Band 14 can help your municipality become a smart city of the future, creating a network of security cameras that can help your first respondents better understand emergencies in real time and allowing your police to develop crime maps that help make your city safer.

The need for surveillance cameras

Modern cities have begun deploying surveillance cameras in high crime areas can help police capture both reported and unreported crimes, giving them a better understanding of the events of the crime. These cameras utilize wireless bandwidth to relay video to the police station. Learn more about crime mapping by reading Crime Maps Help Police Focus Their Resources.

In the event of an emergency or major disaster, police and first respondents can use security camera networks to get a better understanding of the situation. Police have used security cameras to gain knowledge about the location of active shooters so that they can direct the public to safety; and firefighters have used these cameras to identify the best insertion point for fighting widespread fires. By setting your wireless security camera system on Band 14, your first respondents never have to worry about whether or not they’ll be able to get a signal.

Dedicated bandwidth

Cities and first respondents have long had to struggle with sharing the broadband of the commercial core network with the public at large, making it difficult to communicate or monitor situations in times of a national disaster. Band 14 is a spectrum of the wireless network that has been specifically set aside for first respondents and government use.

In the wake of national disasters and other emergencies during the early part of the 21^st century, FirstNet is designed to solve the issue of clogged networks in the wake of such events. By utilizing Band 14, government officials and emergency management teams are able to continue using live surveillance camera feeds to direct first respondents in the field, without the delays and interference that can be experienced on public bandwidths.

How FirstNet works

The mission of FirstNet is a simple one – utilize Band 14 to create a network that only public safety officials are able to access. The task of creating this network was given to the wireless experts at AT&T. By restricting the use of Band 14 for official government use, FirstNet ensures that public safety officials will be able to transmit data, make calls, and maintain consistent access to surveillance cameras without interruption both on a daily basis and during emergency events. AT&T even offers preferential pricing for public safety personnel using Band 14.

Band 14 and security cameras

Traditionally, one of the biggest challenges for wireless networks is that each device connected to the network is competing for the same limited bandwidth. For public safety officials using security cameras to monitor high crime areas on a daily basis or in an emergency, any delay in getting the information you need can be life-threatening. If a crime is in process, your team needs to know that they won’t experience skips or freezing of images as the data travels across a crowded network. By setting up your security cameras on Band 14, you ensure that your public safety officials have consistent access to live feeds from your camera network without having to worry about lags or buffering.

CameraSecurityNow.com has helped numerous cities bolster their public safety programs by installing networks of security cameras across their cities. Using Band 14 makes connecting your city’s security camera network easier – without the worry of a crowded network. CameraSecurityNow.com offers surveillance cameras with a variety of features, including license plate recognition, infrared imaging for night time and low light recording, and remote access. With more than 30 years of experience, our expert security camera installers and technicians can answer any questions you may have about surveillance camera needs for your community. Get a quote for all of your citywide security camera needs.

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The FBI reported that 106 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty in 2018, an increase from 94 officers who died a year earlier.

In the world of security camera systems, few cameras offer as many options and features as the Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) camera. With the ability to monitor large areas with ease, zoom in on events in real time, and fully remote control options, PTZ cameras are a popular and viable option for businesses across a variety of industries. Read on to explore more about PTZ cameras, their most popular features, and why you may want to choose a PTZ camera for your business.

What is a PTZ camera?

PTZ refers to a camera’s ability to move its lens and refocus in real time. Featuring a lens that can rotate on three axes, PTZ cameras offer users complete control over the field of view. Utilizing the software on the system’s Network Video Recorder or on the remote viewing app, you can rotate your camera in any direction while zooming in or out in real time. PTZ cameras offer the unique ability to view a large area, while also keeping an eye on even the smallest details.

Monitor large areas

Imagine being able to reduce the cost of covering large areas of your business or worksite without sacrificing resolution or image quality. The multiple features of PTZ cameras allow them to be used for both wide-area monitoring and zooming in to provide more details.

While fixed cameras are able to cover only a narrow area, PTZ cameras enable business owners to cover large areas with fewer cameras. For outdoor-based businesses, like construction sites or gravel pits, PTZ cameras offer an efficient option for monitoring large worksites, while also allowing users to zoom in on site visitors, potential thieves, and others. PTZ cameras can also zoom in to help identify license plate numbers of vehicles that visit your site after hours.

Narrow your focus

PTZ cameras combine the ability to cover large areas with the option to zoom in and focus on details in real time. Instead of having to cover an area with multiple cameras with different features, your PTZ camera enables you to get both a high-level and detailed view of your worksite or business.

One of the most popular applications for PTZ cameras is in parking lots. When you’re dealing with claims of vehicle damage from carts, slip and fall injuries, or hit-and-run incidents in your parking lot, the ability get a view of the entire lot and zoom in on specific incidents to get more detail is invaluable.

Remote control

Thanks to the software on your NVR or remote viewing app, you and your security team can have full access to your PTZ cameras anytime from anywhere. Instead of relying on a network of cameras to catch parts of an incident, remote control access of your PTZ camera allows you to catch all the action from one camera unit.

With the ability to pan, tilt, or zoom in on action in real time, PTZ cameras are a popular choice for monitoring large car dealerships. By allowing you to keep an eye on both all of your inventory at once and keep an eye on any suspicious individuals who might enter the lot after hours, your PTZ camera can provide you with the security of an entire system at a fraction of the cost.

Another popular use for PTZ cameras is in schools and on university campuses. In traditional school settings, security and office personnel can keep an eye on large open areas like the playground or entryway, while also monitoring and tracking potential bullying incidents and deploying staff to respond faster. On university campuses, PTZ cameras can be utilized outdoors on the quad or at sports arenas and fields to provide additional layers of security for students and visitors.

Trust a professional

While you may be tempted to install your own security camera system, PTZ camera installation requires professional installation to ensure that the job is done right. PTZ cameras are more complicated to install than traditional bullet cameras and, since they’re more expensive than other camera types, you want to avoid damaging your new PTZ cameras. Improper installation can also lead to lagging, unresponsive, or poor picture quality. Camera Security Now offers highly-skilled camera techs ready to install your PTZ system. Don’t let the installation process lessen the benefits of your new PTZ system, contact Camera Security now today.

Why choose a PTZ camera?

The versatility of PTZ cameras makes them ideally suited for outdoor applications or large warehouses. With the ability to have complete control over your camera’s field of view, your PTZ camera offers you greater control over ensuring the safety and security of your worksite or business. Contact Camera Security Now to learn more about how a PTZ Security Camera System can enhance the security of your business.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with CameraSecurityNow.com and connect with us on social media. Join the discussion by commenting below.

Recently, our sister company, Computer Service Now, told you about the Hidden Costs of Not Upgrading Your Computer, but your outdated security camera system could be costing you more than you realize. Just like computers and servers, your security camera system needs to be upgraded too. From camera downtime to lower quality and missing out on new options, your old security camera system is a drain on your company’s valuable resources. Read on to learn more about the hidden costs of not upgrading your aging security camera system.

More downtime

Just like with any electronic device, the older your security cameras become, the more likely they are to fail or experience more frequent outages. For companies with numerous cameras, these occasional outages can quickly add up; and for smaller companies, the loss of even one camera can mean the loss of a large amount of security camera coverage.

The older your system is, the less likely you are to be getting regular maintenance. Is the company that installed your system still in business? Did your service contract expire and no one bothered to contact you to renew or extend it? No replacing batteries or deferring maintenance can seriously impact your security camera system’s ability to function properly. When the components of your aging system aren’t regularly checked and updated, your system can experience catastrophic failures.

A newer IP security camera system offers fewer failure points and ease of service that help reduce downtime. If your IP camera is experiencing an issue, a technician can often troubleshoot and fix the problem remotely. When a service or maintenance visit is needed, your technician is sure to have the parts or equipment needed to repair your modern security camera system, unlike an old outdated analog system which might require waiting for a part to be delivered.

Lower quality

The video quality and resolution of security camera systems have come a long way in the last few years. Don’t wait until you get robbed or your store gets broken into to find out that your outdated system is only capable of producing grainy footage that makes it impossible to identify the culprit.

Older camera systems are notorious for producing terrible images in low lighting conditions or for being so low quality that zooming in on an image only made the image even more unintelligible. Old analog security cameras send a video signal to your digital video recorder (DVR) which then processes the signal and records it, resulting in a lower frame rate and limited resolution. Read Why is My Security Footage Low Quality to learn more.

Don’t wait until you find out that your analog security camera’s low quality doesn’t allow you to zoom in and identify the license plate of a vehicle involved in a hit and run in your parking lot. Take a proactive approach by upgrading to an IP security camera system that allows you to capture high-resolution images on cameras that offer features like Pan-Tilt-Zoom, license plate recognition, and remote viewing options to keep your workplace safer and more secure.

Storage issues

You may think that your old analog security cameras allow you to save on storage costs, but you’d be wrong. The DVRs that record, process, and store the footage from analog cameras aren’t capable of handling very much data. This lack of storage capability often means that business owners who intended to save money by not upgrading end up shelling out even more money for additional DVRs to store their low-quality analog video.

One of the most common methods of compressing and distributing video on a modern IP security camera system, H.264 cuts video data to about a quarter of its original size, allow you to store more video on your network video recorder (NVR). These compression capabilities allow you to reduce your overall storage needs while capturing a higher-quality image that can be digitally zoomed in on to allow for images to be examined in greater detail.

Fewer options

Does reviewing your security camera footage mean sitting down at a computer in the office? You never know when an incident is going to occur in your workplace. When your alarm company calls you at 2am to say that an intruder alert has been set off in your building, can you view your security cameras from the comfort of your bed to find out if there’s actually an intruder or if it’s just a stray cat that has wandered into your warehouse? Old analog security camera systems often lack many of the options that are standard on modern IP systems, like remote accessibility or the ability to integrate with access control systems and alarms.

It’s important for you to be able to keep track of your business from anywhere and at any time, that’s why an updated digital security camera system like ours comes with remote viewing access options standard. Now you can check in on your employees and workplace from anywhere using your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

Not only that, we understand that the modern demands of business, especially those that operate 24/7, means that companies need to be able to use their security camera systems for more than just recording footage. Our Geovision security camera system offers a comprehensive software package allowing seamless access control integration to help you control access to restricted areas like the server room, even when your regular office staff have gone home for the day. Read Taking Security to the Next Level with Access Control to learn more.

Schedule your free consultation today

Thinking about upgrading? Our free one-hour site visit and consultation is the ideal opportunity for you to discuss your concerns with our camera security experts. We work with you to offer the best options for your security camera installation while keeping your project on budget.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with CameraSecurityNow.com and connect with us on social media. Join the discussion by commenting below.

Automated Network Attached Paging Provides Powerful Functions Network attached paging systems are replacing the older analog paging systems. They are not only easier to install; they provide increased functionality. One of the most helpful features of this system is its ability to make automated announcements. You can push a button and make a pre-recorded page, […]

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Jurisdictions throughout the nation increased security at houses of worship this weekend after a teen gunman killed one woman and injured a rabbi, a child and another man during Passover celebrations at a San Diego-area synagogue last Saturday. 

What is the Best IP Door Access System for You? The first IP door access control system was introduced by Isonas around the year 2000. This was revolutionary at the time because each door reader included the intelligence that was typically provided by a control box. It took many years for this new technology to […]

The post IP Access Control System Comparison appeared first on Kintronics.

A guy is late for an important meeting, but he can’t find a place to park. In desperation, he begins to pray. “Please Lord, if you help me find a parking stall right now, I promise to go to church every Sunday and never drink vodka again!” A moment later, he sees a beautiful empty spot right […]

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Despite the United Kingdom’s Brexit plans, London remained the leading international destination last year for U.S. business travelers, according to global travel management company BCD Travel.

As the bodies that insure money in banks and credit unions against theft or loss, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) both require that financial institutions be monitored by security camera systems. Protecting the money that customers have entrusted to them is a major concern for banks and credit unions. Without specific guidelines from their insurers about requirements for their surveillance systems, many financial institutions have found themselves with subpar systems that make identifying a bank robber or ATM thief nearly impossible. That’s where the experts at CameraSecurityNow.com come in. Here are a few of the must-have features for bank and credit union security camera systems.

High-resolution cameras

A while back, we helped a customer retrieve footage of a bank robbery from their security camera system. But our customer wasn’t the bank – it was the business next door. Without a high-resolution security camera system, the bank found themselves asking Why Is My Security Footage so Low Quality?

We always encourage businesses to have cameras in public areas to help neighboring businesses and the community stay safe and to aid police investigations. However, as the manager or security officer of a financial institution, you should never have to rely on another business’ security cameras to catch better quality footage of your bank robber than your own security system. If it’s been a while since your system was installed and you’ve found yourself struggling with poor quality footage, it may be time to upgrade your camera equipment.

Old analog cameras produce low frame rates and have a limited platform of resolutions available – leaving you with grainy images. Our standard 5MP IP security cameras provide a cost-effective solution to your image quality problems and often requires less work to install. You can even opt to add IP cameras to your existing analog network to increase your field of coverage.

Motion detection and tracking

Most banks don’t have 24/7 physical security. That’s where a security camera system with motion detection and motion tracking features can really boost your after-hours security game. By autonomously tracking moving objects in real time, your Pan Tilt Zoom and Fisheye cameras can even send smart alerts when someone enters a monitored zone while the bank is closed.

If a robbery occurs after-hours, motion tracking allows you to keep an eye on the intruder the entire time they’re in your building. Stationary cameras may capture only a few glimpses of the intruder during the course of the robbery, but motion tracking cameras allow the police to capture more details about the person responsible. These images can help police pick out more identifying features, which could result in faster identification and apprehension of the culprit.

Night vision

If you have exterior ATMs or the front of your credit union isn’t well lit at night, infrared (or night vision) cameras should be on your list of must-have features. Our infrared cameras are able to capture high-resolution black and white footage, even without visible light.

Standard security cameras are unable to produce a usable image in dark or low light situations, leaving your outdoor ATM particularly vulnerable at night. Infrared cameras can help police identify your ATM suspect even if your machine isn’t well-lit at night. Read Misconceptions Surrounding Low Light Surveillance to learn more about infrared security cameras.

Large storage capacity

Since the average required storage for financial institutions’ security footage is about 6 months, it’s not surprising that video storage is always a concern for financial institutions. While other business owners may lower the resolution of stored video to get around investing in additional storage, banks and credit unions simply cannot afford to go that route if the goal is to prevent or identify bank robbers.

Using the most current video compression standards, CameraSecurityNow.com can provide long-term storage of all of your financial institution’s high-resolution security video for compliance, reference, and training purposes. Our security experts work with you to determine the most cost-effective storage solution to fit your needs. Read RAID and Long Term Video Storage to learn more about the wide array of storage options we offer.

Get ahead of the problem…before they get away

Would you believe me if I told you that about 24 percent of bank robbers get away with the crime? If you’re the manager of a financial institution, you know the risks and vulnerabilities that your business faces every day. While you can’t stop all robberies, you can help ease the burden by ensuring that your security camera system is kept up to date and is capable of producing high-quality images to aid police and other investigators. Updating your system isn’t just about image quality, though. Keep in mind that as your system ages, outages and video loss become more and more common, potentially leaving you with no footage at all after an incident occurs. No bank or credit union manager wants to be in the position of explaining that one to police, regulators, investors, and customers.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

Follow our blog to stay up-to-date with CameraSecurityNow.com and connect with us on social media. Join in the discussion by commenting below.

Security camera systems can provide an extra set of eyes to monitor your quarry or aggregate site. By offering additional support to stop trespassers and make your work site safer for employees, a quality surveillance camera system should be an integral part of your quarry or aggregate mining site. Security cameras offer an efficient way to improve the overall security of your quarry or above ground mining site. Let’s explore the benefits of security cameras and how they can make your work site safer and more secure.

Protect equipment

At a mine or quarry site, your equipment is the driving force behind your business and that equipment doesn’t come cheap. From huge dump trucks carrying tons of materials to earth moving bulldozers and crushing equipment to earth boring machinery, protecting your equipment is a vital task for your security camera system.

While you may think that the biggest threat to your equipment comes from thieves or vandals, you may actually want to look a little closer to home. Employees who become lax in following proper operating procedures or observing safety protocols while operating huge machinery are often the cause of damage or destruction of work equipment. A high-quality security camera system can help you observe employees in action throughout different times of the day and identify any equipment protocol breaches that could spell disaster.

Trespassing issues

The lakes created by quarrying activities are often a draw for young adults and teenagers seeking less crowded swimming areas. ATV and other off-road vehicle riders also seem drawn to the seclusion of quarries for night and weekend riding. Not only do trespassers put themselves in danger, but they can also cause injuries to your employees and equipment.

Since they’re unfamiliar with the terrain and dangers inherent on a quarry or other aggregate site, trespassers often find that their activities can lead to injury or even death. Due to the remoteness of many quarry sites, the odds of catching a trespasser in the act without added security are slim and the results can be horrific – a lesson learned too late by a drowned swimmer at one Pennsylvania quarry.

Even with signs, locked gates, and fences, trying to keep out trespassers can feel like you’re fighting a losing battle. A high-quality security camera system with remote viewing access and object detection alerts can notify you whenever an unauthorized person is on your property and allow you to direct the police or a security guard to catch trespassers in the act.

Worker safety concerns

Employee safety is always a major concern at quarries and mines. Heavy machinery, dangerous and loud work environments, and working with explosives and other hazardous materials combine to make surface mining and other jobs in aggregate industries more dangerous than jobs in most other sectors. A security camera system can help you recognize areas that need additional safety precautions put in place as well as identify opportunities for additional training to reduce future accidents.

When employees are regularly working around explosives and pumps, serious injuries can easily occur if everyone isn’t always following safety best practices. Federal regulators have noted an alarming increase in fatal accidents in quarries and other aggregate mines. In 2014, 28 above ground aggregate workers died in work-related accidents, the highest numbers since 2007.

Not only can a security camera system help create a safer work environment that protects your workers, it can also protect your company from paying huge fees for OSHA violations. Unless your company can afford to pay $310,000 in fines resulting from a single incident, it may be time to look at boosting your safety game with a high-quality security camera system.

Keep your work site secure and safe

All of the security camera systems we sell feature the latest remote connectivity options. Remote access allows you to view a live stream from your security cameras and recorded footage from any mobile device or computer. With remote viewing, your security team can keep an eye on your aggregate or quarry site from anywhere, anytime.

We offer a wide array of security camera types with many different features. Our standard cameras are 5 megapixel and we also offer weatherproof and Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras so you may be surprised how well you can see your quarry site from just a few cameras mounted throughout the property.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service and installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

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A new report says there is no evidence that hardening of schools is keeping students safe.

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Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has started to test a new system that uses iris and facial recognition scanning to identify people.

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Pharmacies are a source of relief from pain and suffering for many people, but they’re also a tempting target for criminals. With the double draw of cash on hand and large quantities of controlled substances, pharmacies are often the target of robberies and thefts by both criminals and employees. A quality security camera system can be a valuable loss prevention tool, management aid, and help you meet regulatory requirements. While we recently discussed the Security Requirements for Marijuana Dispensaries, here are a few best practices you should follow when thinking about installing or upgrading a security camera system in your traditional pharmacy.

Check your state and local requirements

As with marijuana dispensaries, the recommendations or requirements for security cameras in pharmacies varies from state to state. Each state’s licensing board sets forth its own guidelines for pharmacy security, which may or may not include a requirement for security cameras.

However, security cameras are a highly visible and effective deterrent against robbery and theft. In addition to other measures required or recommended by your state licensing agency, high-resolution cameras can help combat drug diversion. Perhaps this is why National Community Pharmacists Association and Purdue Pharma’s RxPATROL highly recommend that all pharmacies employ the use of security cameras as part of a comprehensive security plan, even including detailed recommendations about security cameras on their Pharmacy Security Checklist.

Best practices: Show yourself

To get the most out of your security camera system, you should ensure that your cameras are visible and that signage is posted throughout your pharmacy about the recordings. While some store owners may subscribe to the “hidden camera” theory, security cameras are actually more effective at deterring or preventing thefts and robberies when potential culprits know they’re being monitored.

In addition to typical entrances and exits, cameras should monitor all locations where drugs are stored, dispensed, counted, held, or returned to stock, as well as having a clear view of checkout locations.

Best practices: Put your best features forward

When thinking about the features your security camera system needs, it’s important to think about the way the potential footage may be used. Based on security camera footage that we often see on the evening news or YouTube, it seems like many business owners settle for the “just enough” approach. However, grainy imagery and low-quality cameras won’t help you protect your business in the event of a theft.

Our lowest resolution cameras are 2MP, with our standard being 5MP and the default frame rate on our cameras is 25 frames per second, well above the recommended 10 frames per second. Our technicians work with you to map your location to ensure that your cameras get an adequate field of view and cover all of the areas most critical to your security needs. With a wide range of cameras with special features like Pan-Tilt-Zoom, fisheye lenses, and infrared sensors, we can design a camera array that provides the best solution to your security needs.

Best practices: Storage

As a standard rule of thumb for high-risk industries, we have to agree with the three-month video retention recommendation made by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs Board of Pharmacy. Since the time frame between audits and manual inventory counts can be up to 90 days, this retention period allows pharmacy managers and licensing board officials to review footage to identify potential loss occurrences when discrepancies are found during counting. Keeping that many tapes or DVDs got you worried about physical storage space? You can reduce concerns about storage requirements by upgrading to a DVR or NVR.

Let’s be honest – criminals aren’t usually the brightest in the bunch. Even if you do store your security footage on a DVR or NVR, consider placing a dummy VHS recorder with tape in the office area, in case your thief decides to “take the evidence” with him. Worried about employee theft in your pharmacy? No one should have access to your NVR or DVR for editing, deleting, or overwriting files except the business owner and your IT manager.  Keep your DVR or NVR in a secure location to prevent theft of the recording device itself.

Keep an eye on staff

It’s a truly shocking statistic, but almost half of drug thefts are committed by pharmacy employees. In the summer of 2018, a Florida pharmacy technician was arrested twice in a three-week period for stealing hundreds of Oxycodone and amphetamine pills from the community pharmacy where she’d worked for less than a month. Her brazen thefts were captured on the pharmacy’s state-of-the-art security camera system and she was charged with drug trafficking, drug poswatchsession, and grand theft.

Strategically placed security cameras can cover all of the areas where employees interact with controlled substances in your pharmacy, limiting their opportunity to steal drugs undetected and deterring the likelihood of an employee attempting a theft at all. Your cameras can also keep an eye on the cash drawer, in case of sticky-fingered employees who are looking to take more than drugs from your business.

Time for an upgrade?

If your existing security camera system produces grainy images with unrecognizable features, it may be time to think about an upgrade. Outdated equipment is the biggest inhibitor of capturing quality footage that can actually be used to identify thieves in your pharmacy. Analog cameras operate at lower frame rates and have a limited platform of resolutions, lowering your image quality.

Our 5MP IP security cameras often require less time and work to install than your existing analog system. Want to expand your current coverage and replace your existing cameras later? Our analog-compatible DVR works with both analog and IP cameras, letting you decide when it’s the right time to upgrade your existing cameras. Learn more about how you can improve the quality of your security camera footage.

Keeping your pharmacy secure

Protecting employees and customers and keeping the drugs in your pharmacy secure while also limiting the likelihood of thefts and robberies are the main goals of any pharmacy security camera system. We work with you to understand the specific surveillance system requirements for your state to develop the right security camera solution for your pharmacy. More than just a sales call, our experts review your entire site and provide a 100 percent accurate quote for your security camera needs. Get a quote for all of your pharmacy security camera needs.

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New data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau reveals that metal theft claims are down more than 78 percent since 2014.

With all the strides in security camera technology, why does most of the security camera footage released after a robbery at a gas station or bank look like it was shot with a mid-90s camcorder? In a bid to save money, many companies put off updating their security camera systems or opt to lower their image resolution for storage, resulting in low-quality surveillance footage that is almost unusable. Want security camera footage that can actually be used when an incident occurs? Here are a few steps you can take to capture high-quality images that can actually help police identify perpetrators and make your business more secure.

Outdated equipment

If it’s been a while since you installed your system and you’re struggling with how to improve the quality of your security footage, the answer to your problem may be staring you in the face. Outdated equipment can severely limit your ability to capture footage that is usable for police and your loss prevention teams.

Old analog security cameras send a video signal to your digital video recorder (DVR) which then processes the signal and records it. Analog cameras also require two cables (one for power and one for video) and a direct connection to your DVR. The result? Low frame rates and a limited platform of resolutions available.

Meanwhile, our standard 5MP IP security cameras encode the video signal at the camera itself and then send the video to the network video recorder (NVR). Replacing old, outdated analog cameras is surprisingly cost-effective. Since IP cameras don’t have to be directly connected to the NVR, they often require less work to install than your old analog system. Want to keep your existing cameras and add to your network? Our analog-compatible DVR is also compatible with new IP cameras. Even our standard IP camera resolutions are as good or better than the best analog options.

The question of storage

Storage issues are probably the greatest contributor to low-quality security camera video footage. In general, high-resolution cameras require more storage space. To get around having to spend more money on extra storage, many business owners opt to lower the resolution of the stored video – resulting in grainy surveillance footage.

While video can be compressed for storage to save space, you should be mindful of what may happen when you need to use that footage later. Running an HD camera 24/7 at its peak setting just isn’t feasible for many small businesses. High definition video takes up huge volumes of storage space. Most DVRs allow for variable recording quality, and lower quality recordings take up less space. That’s the option a lot of shop owners opt for. But it’s that lower quality option that is the biggest cause of blurry, pixelated security camera video. While the FBI recommends 640×480 minimum resolution for surveillance footage, you may find that this just isn’t enough to allow you or the police to definitively identify culprits in your business.

Our security camera experts work with you to determine the most cost-effective storage solution to meet your needs. For example, you can reduce your storage needs without compromising image resolution quality by setting cameras to record only when motion is detected instead of capturing footage constantly. A comprehensive site evaluation can also help you identify specific areas that require long-term storage while overwriting footage in other areas more often.

Be mindful of lighting

Lighting can be your security camera system’s best friend or worst enemy. Bad or low lighting can leave your cameras unable to capture clear, usable images, while excess or direct lighting can leave you with washed out images that are equally useless.

The areas covered by your security cameras should have light levels that are high enough to produce a usable image. Try to ensure that lighting sources are kept out of the camera’s field of view. Where possible, try to mount cameras below your lighting sources to prevent glare. Be particularly mindful of cameras in entryways and exits where bright sunlight can cause blooming and streaking, rendering portions of the field of view completely unusable. We also offer infrared cameras that can capture nighttime or extreme lowlight images that are not visible to the human eye. These black and white cameras can capture high-resolution images even without visible lighting.

Camera purpose

Two common purposes of cameras are theft deterrence and risk management. Whether worried about employees stealing from the cash drawer or customers shoplifting, business owners know the security cameras can be a deterrent to crime. Additionally, in a world where civil litigation is booming, security cameras provide a layer of risk protection in case of insurance or legal claims. In these cases, high resolution or top of the line cameras may not be an important consideration, with these business owners focused on doing the bare minimum with their system. If you want a high-quality security camera system for your business, then we can help.

Security Camera Now can help

Like most things in life, you get what you pay for in a security camera system. During our free one-hour site visit and security consultation, our security experts can help make sure that your camera selection and placement is appropriate and meets all of your security concerns. Our typical security camera system includes four or more cameras connected to a DVR or NVR and a hard drive for storage, but we can work within your budget and project needs to build the right system for you.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. Our camera service installation professionals deliver the camera solutions that your company needs, helping you ensure the security of your business, employees, and customers. To find out how easy it is to keep your company secure, request a quote today.

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Door Access Questions and Answers Door access control systems provide security for business, school, government organizations. Access control has become more important as the need for improved safety has increased.   How does door access control work, what is the most secure access control system, and why do I need door access control management software […]

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In many enterprises, security initiatives focus on protecting assets, products and merchandise. Yet, security risks begin long before that.

Comparison of Professional IP Camera Systems and Home Camera Systems, What’s the difference? If you do a search for IP camera systems, you may see low-cost IP cameras advertised by Amazon, Costco, BestBuy, and other consumer sellers. You can find IP cameras starting at under $40, but are these IP cameras right for your business, […]

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In a busy shipping and receiving department with dozens of moving parts, anything that can help make the jobs of your management and front-line workers a little easier is a welcome commodity. Security camera systems can do just that! In a shipping and receiving department, a security camera system is about far more than just security. From protecting inventory to helping with staffing needs, your security cameras help you get a better read on the situation in your department. Read on to learn more about how having quality security cameras in your shipping and receiving department can benefit your company.

Plan ahead

If you’re planning to have a security camera system installed in your shipping and receiving department, be sure to have a game plan in place well in advance of when you want to have the cameras installed. Summer and winter shutdowns are an excellent time for having new equipment, like a security system, installed because it avoids workflow disruptions and minimizes the potential for delays.

Since these periods are so popular, you should plan to book your installation several months in advance of your seasonal shutdown to ensure that you get your first choice of contractor. We pride ourselves on creating the solution that best meets your needs. That’s why every install we do begins with a free site visit and consultation, allowing us to map out your system to best achieve your goals while staying on budget. Schedule your consultation and installation today. Check out Make the Most of Summer Shutdowns to learn more about scheduling your security camera system installation, upgrades, or maintenance.

Protect your inventory

Shipping and receiving departments are a prime target for potential criminals, from both the outside and inside. By installing prominently displayed security cameras, you can help deter a great deal of this crime.

Most thieves or vandals are looking for a crime of opportunity and will move on if they see that your shipping and receiving areas are covered by security cameras. If a crime does occur, your surveillance system can help police quickly identify the suspects and arrest them – increasing the odds of recovering any stolen merchandise or equipment.

Internally, security cameras can also reduce the risk of employee theft. It pains every employer to think that an employee might be the source of loss in their shipping or receiving department, but the truth is that employee theft accounts for a significant portion of material loss across all industries. Since employees know that they will be easily identified on security cameras, they are less likely to attempt to steal from their employer when they know they are being monitored. With their panoramic lenses, fisheye security cameras allow you to cover wide areas without blind spots, making them ideal for use in monitoring your shipping and receiving areas to deter criminals.

Keep an eye out for wanderers

Shipping and receiving areas are often noisy and very busy areas with multiple forklifts running back and forth while other employees are busy verifying loads. How often do truck drivers wander into your shipping and receiving department looking for assistance, access to a bathroom, or just to chat? While you want to be friendly and helpful, the truth is that unauthorized individuals in this area are a lawsuit waiting to happen.

When a driver or other individual wanders into your department, they can very easily be injured by any one of the moving parts within the area, trip over a box, or slip on a slick spot that employees who work there regularly know to avoid – leaving your company open to potential liability in a lawsuit. Motion activated security cameras in the pathways that lead into your shipping and receiving department can help your staff be aware of any unauthorized individuals that are trying to enter the area, allowing you to turn them back before any possible injury can occur.

Staffing

Have you been thinking about adding more staff to your shipping and receiving department? Security cameras can help you monitor employee productivity and performance, allowing you to get a more accurate reflection of the ability of your current staff to meet the demands of the job. If employees seem to be working at maximum capacity, but still have trouble keeping up with the pace, that’s a good sign that you may need to add additional staff.

OSHA compliance

OSHA regulations are in place for one reason only: to protect the health and safety of your most valuable asset – your employees. When companies or employees take shortcuts, serious accidents can often be the end result. Regularly reviewing your security camera footage can help you identify lapses in safety protocols that may indicate that additional training is necessary. You can also quickly determine if there are accident hotspots and put additional precautions in place to limit these incidents in the future. Check out Make Your Plant Safer with Security Cameras for more information on how a security camera systems help you meet OSHA standards while saving your company money in the long run by keeping your workers’ compensation premiums lower and your team more productive.

There are many more benefits

We’ve touched on just a few of the most common and important benefits of having a security camera system in your shipping and receiving area, but the truth is the greatest benefit to your company is the one that best helps you meet your needs. That’s where our free site visit and consultation comes in handy. We work with you and your safety and security team to develop the solution that best meets the demands of your company while working with your budget.

Our expert technicians will install all of your equipment and can answer any questions your IT department may have. Using the most current video compression standards, we can also provide long-term storage for all of your shipping and receiving department security footage for reference, training, and compliance purposes. Get a quote for all of your department’s security camera needs.

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Smaller retail and franchisee owners are among the busiest people I know. When there’s a problem, it’s usually up to them to find a solution, whether that’s troubleshooting an IT issue or dealing with staffing challenges. Add to that the fact that many owners operate multiple locations and it’s easy to understand why they are typically cautious about adopting new technologies. If the tech isn’t easy to use, or can’t demonstrate immediate and measurable benefits, realistically it’s only going to add to the ‘to do’ list.

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Recently, we gave you some tips to get your capital expenditure request approved for security cameras installed in your workplace. As management starts to review your request, you may find yourself having to offer additional justification for why your company needs to have a security camera system, beyond those you already included in your request – and, once again, we’re here to help. Here are 6 reasons to install security cameras at your business.

Avoid the He-Said-She-Said drama

We’ve all seen those videos on Facebook and YouTube of an incident or altercation at a business that leaves the business management and owners looking like less than upstanding citizens. It’s no secret that many of these are selectively edited to portray a specific viewpoint, even if it’s not exactly the truth. Unfortunately, we live in a world where anyone with a smartphone and an ax to grind can be the downfall of your business.

Security camera systems can help protect your business by presenting the whole story to the public, allowing you to redeem the good name of your business. Since most of the security cameras that we offer also include audio recording abilities, you can even defend your business from racially or politically charged allegations. Don’t let competing narratives ruin your business.

Loss Prevention

The most dangerous time for businesses is between Black Friday and Christmas Eve when companies experience 37 percent of their annual loss. The best way to reduce your inventory shrinkage is to install a security camera system that includes cameras in areas with high-value inventory and as well as fisheye cameras above check out areas to keep an eye on cash drawers. Prominently displayed security cameras for management review can help deter shoplifters and stop employee theft in its tracks.

Evaluate your equipment needs

Providing employees with the tools they need to do their jobs is a key component in boosting productivity. Some perceived equipment shortages actually turn out to be the result of inefficient use, while others are disorganized workflows. While relying on frontline managers to inform you of equipment shortages is the go-to strategy for upper management at most companies, security cameras can actually provide you with objective data on equipment utilization. Auditing security camera footage to review equipment utilization allows you to determine if you need to make an expenditure on additional equipment or adjust your workflows to better utilize existing equipment.

Legitimate accident or fraud?

Parking lot accidents may be a fact of life, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t protect your business’ interests even beyond your front door. When someone slips or falls in your parking lot or vehicles collide, liability is often a case of who’s more believable. Surveillance cameras in parking lots help you (and the authorities) identify who is liable in vehicle accidents. Security cameras with license plate readers can even identify perpetrators who leave the scene of an accident that occurs in your parking lot. Additionally, this footage can help insulate you from frivolous lawsuits if someone fraudulently claims to have taken a tumble in your parking lot.

Safety compliance

In safety, shortcuts can lead to serious injury. Security cameras can help you catch everyday lapses that undermine the safety of your employees. Regular reviews of your security footage allow your safety team to identify potential hotspots for accidents, where additional precautions are needed, and identify employees that may benefit from additional safety training. In addition to ensuring workplace safety compliance that helps you meet OSHA standards, avoiding accidents can also help keep your workers’ compensation premiums in check and keep your team productive.

Reduce wait times

Driver complaints about long wait times at your dock may be a sign that your delivery dock operations aren’t running as smoothly as they should be – costing your company time and money. Motion detecting security cameras notify your dock team when drivers arrive and allow them to safely and efficiently navigate waiting trucks to the next loading dock as soon as it becomes available.

Need more reasons?

There’s no shortage of reasons to install security cameras in your workplace. From reducing shrinkage to eliminating inefficiencies, security cameras offer so much more than added security. Providing decisionmakers with the right combination of reasons that most appeal to your business’ needs is key to getting your capital expenditure for a security camera system approved.

With years of experience and training, our security camera experts are able to fully evaluate your security needs and determine the right camera products for your business. Whether you need 360-degree views, move and zoom, object tracking, or stationary cameras, our detailed understanding of the common concerns that businesses face helps us deliver the best recommendations for your business. Get a quote for all of your security camera needs.

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I used to be allergic to soap but I’m clean now.   The patron saint of poverty is St. Nickeless.   What did the man say when the bridge fell on him? The suspension is killing me.   Do you have weight loss mantras? Fat chants!   My tailor is happy to make a new […]

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Car washes are often seen as easy targets of false damage claims, vandalism, and theft. With few employees on site, unattended coin dispensers, and some unscrupulous actors looking to earn a quick buck, protecting your car wash with a quality security camera system is essential. Here are just a couple of ways that surveillance cameras can give your car wash an added layer of security that can help keep your business safe and profitable.

Fraudulent claims

If you manage a car wash, it’s inevitable that you’ll receive vehicle damage claims caused by car wash equipment. While some of these claims may be legitimate, a security camera system is your first line of defense in protecting your business from fraudulent damage claims.

Your security cameras can be used to document the condition of all vehicles as they enter the car wash and track vehicles as they move through the tunnel. When a customer makes a damage or injury claim, strategically placed cameras can be used to disprove false accusations. With the high costs of vehicle repair, a security camera system can pay for itself with just one disproved damage claim. Need more reasons to install security cameras at your business?

Protect your business

Unfortunately, the very nature of car washes – few employees on site, freestanding payment and change machines, and easy places to hide – make car washes an easy target for vandalism and theft. Visible surveillance cameras let potential bad actors know that you’re serious about the security and safety of your business.

Security cameras can help you catch thieves and vandals in the act, providing the footage that the authorities need to catch and prosecute the perpetrators. In November of 2018, security cameras helped to catch a man and two accomplices who tried to break into three coin machines at a Stop N’ Go Car Wash in Pennsylvania causing $31,000 damage. Having this footage also allows the owners of car washes to submit an insurance claim with evidence of the cause of the damage, helping owners make necessary repairs faster and easier.

Reassure customers

Unattended car washes can be a magnet for bad actors, especially after dark. From muggings to carjacking, these potential criminals can deter customers from visiting your location in the evening and overnight. If your car wash is a 24/7 operation, combining a security camera system with abundant lighting can help customers feel safer using your location.

Adequate lighting, both in the car wash tunnel and parking areas, allows customers to see what’s happening around them, while also serving as a deterrent to potential criminals who don’t want to be seen. Additionally, ample lighting makes it easier for your security cameras to capture any potential incidents, while also making the cameras more visible to customers and potential criminals.

The right equipment and professionals for the job

High-resolution cameras make it easier to capture license plate numbers, preexisting vehicle damage, and to positively identify perpetrators. If your locations are frequently unmanned, our remote access security systems allow you to quickly and easily access your cameras from your desktop, tablet, or even smartphone.

All of our car wash cameras are rated at least IP66, meaning they are dust-tight and protected from water projected in powerful jets against the camera enclosure from any direction. While we’ve seen systems installed by electricians that did not properly protect connections (sometimes even just wrapping them in a huge ball of electrical tape!), all of our car wash cameras are installed by experienced security camera professionals on water-resistant mounts, protecting the connections from being damaged.

If you’re looking a one-stop shop for your security camera needs, look no further than the experienced professionals at Camera Security Now. To find out how easy it is to keep your car wash secure, request a quote today.

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A subway operator in Shenzhen, China is testing facial recognition software to pay for entry.