Benefits of CCTV Systems

CCTV systems are one of the major ways that retail establishments and business properties help provide safety, discourage theft and increase security. The range of security camera choices on the market – and the decrease in prices thanks to improved technology – have made it easier for even small businesses to take advantage of the added security of video surveillance. The latest advances in security camera and CCTV systems provide a number of advantages for monitoring, management and law enforcement.

Deter Crime and Illegal Activities

Most businesses install a surveilance camera to deter shoplifting and other crimes on their premises. The mere presence of a visible, obvious CCTV camera can cut down on the incidence of shoplifting and burglary in public and residential spaces. Most criminals prefer to do their stealing in places where they don’t risk being observed or recorded.

In addition, monitored CCTV systems allow store management or staff to keep trouble areas under surveillance so that they can step in and intervene before a crime is committed or detain shoplifters and others who have been observed committing a crime. A monitored security camera allows staff to head off dangerous situations and respond to problems far more quickly.

Reduce Manpower Requirements

In larger areas, such as shopping malls, department stores, supermarkets and apartment complexes, CCTV systems can reduce the need for larger security staffing. A state-of-the-art surveilance camera system can put eyes in places when security guards are covering other areas, effectively doubling or even tripling security coverage without requiring more staff. That reduces costs without compromising security, and can, in fact, provide more comprehensive security than patrolling security guards without surveilance camera backup.

Provide Evidence in Legal Cases

In addition to prevention and deterrence, CCTV systems can also assist with prosecution in legal cases – or provide protection against lawsuits. Recorded tapes from a video surveilance camera can often be used to help police identify and apprehend criminals, and may be useful during prosecution. Security camera footage can also be useful in defending against charges of sexual harassment, employee malfeasance or other legal cases that may be brought against the company or business.

Reduced Insurance Premiums and Taxes

Because CCTV systems increase security and reduce risk, many insurance companies will reduce premiums for businesses that install them. Those premium savings can add up to a significant amount over the years.

Finally, many business owners reduce the costs of installing CCTV systems with tax credits and tax deductions for business investments. With security systems so affordable, there’s no excuse for not providing the best for your business.

Choosing CCTV Systems for Entertainment Venues

If you run an entertainment business, you know the value and importance of providing video security for your venue. CCTV systems are among the most affordable ways to keep an eye on the various possible trouble areas so that you and your security crew can be prepared to step in where needed. If you’re just putting together a CCTV security system for your club or bar, these tips can help you design an effective system and designate security camera placement.

Entrance and Exit Points

The entry into your venue is a vital place for a security camera. If you require ID for entry, choose a camera that can capture a good, high-res image of both the ID and the face of the person presenting it, or make use of a system that photographs the ID while a surveillance camera captures the image of the person entering. This kind of footage can prove essential in defending you if your venue is charged with allowing underage patrons to enter.

Parking Areas

If your club provides parking for customers and staff, point a surveillance camera at the parking lot. Choose either a wide angle camera that can view the entire parking lot, or a PTZ camera that can be programmed to sweep and zoom in based on movement or other triggers. In addition to providing security and peace of mind for your customers, a security camera on the parking lot can provide safety for any staff that leaves after closing, late at night.

Transaction Points

Placing a surveillance camera at transaction points – cash registers or the bar, for example – allows you to keep an eye on any place that money changes hands. You can present it to your employees as a way to ensure their safety and provide evidence if they are accused of mistreating customers. It also allows you to spot abuses by your staff and pinpoint waste and inefficiency in serving customers.

Dance Floor and Customer Areas

Choose a PTZ camera to do programmed sweeps of the dance floor or customer seating area. This is especially important in an entertainment venue where crowds can get rowdy. It allows your security staff to quickly pinpoint brewing hot spots and get there before actual problems break out. Surveillance sweeps of the customer areas are also useful for post mortem analysis after incidents to help you and your staff understand how an incident started and be better prepared for it in the future.

Before making final plans for camera placement, be sure to check the code and laws in your state and city to make sure that you don’t violate any laws. In general, venue owners are prohibited from placing cameras in bathrooms and areas where customers have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Aside from that, though, CCTV systems can be one of the most valuable steps you take to protect your property, your staff and your customers.