Have you considered an investment in a security camera for your business, but are still on the fence about it? We understand that it is a big investment, but we hope to show you that it is worth the cost. We will also provide you with some tips for how to get the most out of your security camera system, like where to place them for an optimal angle. Installing security cameras at your business can improve the safety of your employees and your merchandise.
What types of security cameras are out there?
Wireless vs. Wired Security Camera
Wireless cameras give you the advantage of being smaller and give you more flexibility during installation, as you don’t need to be close to an outlet and they are quite small. They can also be moved and re-positioned anywhere, even to other buildings, with little to no difficulty. The downside of a wireless camera is that it is easier to hack and you can run the risk of losing your signal. Wired cameras, on the other hand, are more secure and less likely to lose network connection. However, they are bulkier, can’t be moved as easily, and are usually more expensive.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Security Camera
Ideally, you would install both outdoor and indoor security cameras for the complete protection of your employees and merchandise. However, if that is out of your budget, you may choose another alternative. If your business is located in an unsafe neighbourhood and you haven’t experienced any problems in your parking lot, you may not need outdoor cameras. You might just want to install indoor security cameras to prevent theft, burglary or unauthorized access with potential harm being done to your employees. If your business does not store any valuables on-site, you might consider only having one or two cameras inside and one outside.
Remote Viewing and Motion Detection
Remote viewing is a great security option for your business. This option allows you to view all of your footage at once in one secure location and some systems allow you to view footage on a mobile device. With remote viewing, you can monitor the safety of your business and the reliability of your employees when you’re not there. Motion detection is useful with limited storage. This option only records when it detects motion in the room. That way you won’t have to sift through hours of blank footage and you’ll save storage space.
What company should I choose?
CPI Security Cameras
CPI’s business package offers a wide variety of products to help secure your business such as an LCD control panel, replacement battery, multiple door contacts, speaker and microphone integration, and more! They have a wide variety of services available and carry cameras with many advanced features.
ADT Security Cameras
ADT offers three different types of cameras: dome cameras, wireless cameras, and indoor colour cameras. They offer mobile apps to make remote viewing and controlling easy. They also offer solutions with motion detection, cloud storage, video duplicators, and digital video recorders.
Funlux Security Camera System
Funlux offers a wired system that supports HD, offers motion detection, and remote access is available so you can view from a secure location and on your mobile devices. Their cameras are for both indoor and outdoor use with night vision included.
Where should I put my cameras to get the most out of them?
Angled in the corners inside your building
Installing your cameras at a slight angle in the corners of your building will give you the optimal view of your business. However, if you have a lot of racks or shelving that might hinder this view, you may need to invest in a few more cameras. You can install them on the ceiling facing downwards to have a complete view of the room or floor.
Outside, place them where you can see most of your property
If you place them on the corners of your building that allow for an unobstructed view of your property, you can get complete coverage of the entire property with as little as two cameras.
What can I get out of having these cameras?
Added security
You can catch shoplifters and criminals in the act and have evidence for the potential legal proceedings. You can also keep an eye on your employees to make sure they’re not avoiding responsibilities or potentially stealing from the company.
The ability to monitor your business
You can view your employees and make sure they’re doing what they’re supposed to be doing. You can also monitor visitors to your store and their buying behaviours. If someone were to make a mess or cause damages, you would be able to find who did it even after they have left.
Monitor any violence
Whether it’s an angry customer or a disgruntled employee, you’ll be the first to know if violence breaks out in your place of business. The remote viewing feature allows you to track your business in real-time so you can contact the police and protect your employees. The recorded footage can serve as evidence should you or the employee decide to press charges.
Maintain high standards of your employees and customer service
You can witness firsthand what goes on in your business when you’re not there. You can monitor your employees to see if they are on their phones a lot, avoiding their assigned duties, giving bad customer service, or to dispute any complaints or customer service issues. This way you can maintain your reputation with reliable customer service and avoid the risk of negative online reviews.
Security cameras are a worthwhile investment for your business both for protection and prevention. They allow you to monitor several potential issues from theft to unproductive employees. They can be used as evidence should you pursue legal action. They can also provide you with added protection against criminal activity, violence, or employee negligence.