Most businesses these days have some type of security cameras installed, however not all business owners think they are necessary. Small businesses in particular may not think they are necessary because they assume that they are not at risk for crime.
The truth is, however, that small businesses are often the target of crime, and security cameras can play a vital role in protecting them. Security cameras provide a number of benefits for small businesses, including deterring crime, providing evidence in the event of a crime, and protecting employees and customers.
Odds are high that your business will be targeted by criminals in some way, at some point. With that in mind, consider the following benefits that extra surveillance can provide.
Theft Deterrence
The most obvious benefit that security cameras provide is deterring theft and vandalism. The presence of cameras makes it clear that your business is being monitored, which can make would-be criminals think twice about targeting your business.
In fact, a study by the University of North Carolina found that businesses with security cameras experienced 73% less vandalism than businesses without them. If your business is located in an area with high rates of crime, security cameras can play a vital role in protecting employees, customers, and property.
Employee Safety
In addition to deterring theft and vandalism, security cameras can also protect employees and customers. If a crime occurs, a security camera can provide footage of the event that can be used as evidence.
Furthermore, if an employee is injured on the job, footage from a security camera can help prove the injury occurred while on the job. In short, security cameras can provide a number of benefits for employees and customers.
Security Cameras Lower Insurance Costs and Fraud Deterrence
Small businesses often have to pay high insurance premiums, and security cameras can help lower these costs. If your business has a history of theft or vandalism, your insurance premiums will be higher than a business without this history.
However, if you can provide evidence that your business is being monitored, you may be able to get a discount on your insurance premiums. In addition, if you have footage of a crime being committed, it will be much easier to file a claim and get the insurance money you need to cover the loss.
Remote Check-ins With Security Camera App
Remote check-ins refer to the act of remotely accessing security footage in order to check on the status of your business. This can be done using a computer, smartphone, or tablet. If you have a retail store, for example, you can use a security camera to check on inventory levels or to see if customers are being helped in a timely manner. If you have an office, you can use a security camera to see if employees are working at their desks or if they are taking personal breaks.
Remote check-ins are particularly beneficial for small businesses, as they allow business owners to check on their businesses even when they are not physically present. This can provide peace of mind, knowing that you can always check on your business even when you are not there.
Modern Advances in Surveillance Camera Technology
Video surveillance has come a long way from the choppy, grainy systems that required complex wiring and relied on VHS tapes for storage.
Those analog systems have now been replaced much higher-quality digital options. Digital systems (or IP cameras) have simpler wiring needs, fewer limitations on the number of cameras that can be connected, and most importantly, a much clearer image. IP cameras also offer the ability to remotely view footage, which can be beneficial for small businesses that do not have the manpower to constantly monitor their surveillance footage.
Digital Video Recording systems (DVRs) are affordable and easy to use, and they can store footage for extended periods of time. This means that businesses can have security cameras in all areas of their businesses, from the front door to the back room. In addition, DVR systems can be used to create video recordings of employee interactions and customer interactions.
What to Know Before You Choose a Small Business Surveillance System
Now that you know the benefits of security cameras for small businesses, you may be wondering what to look for when choosing a surveillance system. Your specific monitoring and security needs will determine the types of hardware and software you should look for.
For example, if you need to monitor a large area, you will need a system with a large field of view. If you have a small business, you may not need as many features as a larger business, so you can save money by choosing a more basic system. However, if you have a business that requires a high level of security, you will need to invest in a more robust system.
Below are some of the factors to look for when choosing a security camera system for your small business:
-Image quality
-Night vision
-Storage capacity
-Compatibility
-Ease of use
Keep these factors in mind when shopping for a surveillance system, and you will be sure to find a system that meets your specific needs.
Remember that no physical surveillance system can take the place of leadership that invests in security. Everyone on your staff should understand that security is taken seriously in your workplace, and everyone has a role to play in keeping the business safe and secure. If your needing assistance choosing the proper security camera for your Tyler Texas small business, Bluelight Technologies can ensure you it right the first time. You can contact us here.
