12

Feb
2016

Choosing the Right Security System for Your Business

February 12th, 2016 | by admin admin | in Security Advice |    72   

Video analytics. Alarm verification. Remote video monitoring. With so many options and new technology, choosing the right security system for your business can be confusing. Since Radius Security offers a full range of products, we can help tailor a solution to fit your needs. Here are some issues to consider:

1. What are you protecting?

If you need to secure high-value outdoor assets—in an auto dealership or on a construction site, for example—you need a system that can filter out random, benign triggers such as leaves, animals, normal traffic etc. At the same time, any suspicious incidents should be monitored and verified immediately. Radius’ Remote Guarding solution works well in such situations. Video-analytics-enabled cameras can detect suspicious activity, while ignoring irrelevant triggers. And our central station operators can respond immediately to alerts, monitor incidents remotely and intervene as needed.

On the other hand, if you store expensive inventory in a secure area with restricted access, a security camera that automatically generates a video clip when it detects movement could be effective and inexpensive.

The key in either situation is to verify alarms. Police respond far more quickly to verified crimes in progress than general alarm reports, which tend to be false.

2. Guards or Cameras?

On-site--or static--security guards and remotely monitored video security cameras do not have to be an either/or choice. A Remote Guarding video surveillance system can cover an entire site at once, and operators can alert security guards on the ground to investigate any suspicious activity.

3. Do You Need Fire Monitoring?

If your building has a sprinkler system, chances are government regulations require you to use a fire monitoring system. Doing so also lowers your insurance rates, protects your assets from water damage and reduces risk to people and property in the event of a fire. If your service provider offers fire monitoring, as well as inspections and maintenance, the monitoring station operators can immediately assess who can best respond to an alarm. If there is a fire, they can call 9-1-1. If there is a technical problem or false alarm, they can send a technician.

4. Who Goes in and Out?

If you operate a retail business with set hours, you may want to install door and window contacts, glass-break detectors and motion detectors. These will detect intruders after hours. Many thieves, however, will ignore audible alarms (sirens). That’s why remote video monitoring can make intrusion detectors more effective.

Meanwhile, if your business requires restricting the movements of employees and clients, you will need an access control system. These can range from a simple keypad or card reader to a biometric scanner.

Regardless of the system you install or the monitoring service you subscribe to, the key to choosing the right system is choosing the right company. Does it

• Provide 24/7 customer service and support?
• Provide monitoring directly (not done by a third party)?
• Meet industry standards and belong to industry associations?
• Possess adequate liability insurance?
• Have licensed and bondable employees?
• Have good reviews and references?
• Conduct fire inspections as well as monitoring?

The answer to all of the above for Radius Security is “Yes!” Founded in 1948, Radius owns and operates a five-diamond ULC-Certified central monitoring station and a fleet of 60 service vehicles. We are an A+-rated BBB company and an active member of the Canadian Security Association. Our clients rate us highly on sites such as Review Buzz.

If you have any further questions about choosing the right security system for your business, please contact us today.

Note: This blog discusses general safety and security topics. It is not intended to provide comprehensive advice or guidance. In all matters of personal safety and security, we encourage readers to research topics in depth and consult a security professional about specific concerns.

Radius Security Vancouver, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Ladner, Delta, Tsawwassen