Most small businesses face the risk of burglary, vandalism, employee theft, and false, malicious lawsuit claims. You need to be proactive in your efforts to protect your assets, employees, and customers. Investing in a reliable security system is an effective way to do this.
Small business security systems are simpler than those of large corporations. However, they still offer advanced security features that can safeguard your business. If you want 24/7 monitoring, you may need to outsource this function to a security company. But it starts with installing the right equipment.
Here’s a guide to help small business owners like you choose the best security system for your business.
Evaluate Your Business’s Security Needs
Small businesses are different, from regular stores to warehouses and offices, meaning each company will have unique security needs. For example, a salon in a suburban area has different layouts compared to a boutique store in a busy downtown street.
A good starting point is assessing your exposure to threats and what areas need the most extra protection.
Do you have valuable merchandise you’re concerned might be targeted? What about expensive equipment or sensitive customer information? These are high-risk targets for theft or vandalism.
Are you located in a high-crime area or suspect malice among competitors or personal rivals? Are there some easy access points that make your premises vulnerable to break-ins?
If you’re located in a business complex, learn more about what’s a good security system for a commercial building.
Have there been any security breaches or incidents in the past? If so, what weak points were exploited? Use this as a learning experience to improve your security measures.
What’s the Best Security System for Small Businesses?
If we had to choose just one type of security system, we’d go for video surveillance. We also advise every small business to invest in security camera systems first, then proceed to support it with others.
While the best security system varies from company to company, it should have a favorable, custom blend of security systems.
Most regular businesses use video surveillance systems together with alarms and sensors. In contrast, a jewelry shop is likely to have video surveillance systems and access control systems instead.
Assessing your business’s needs and vulnerabilities is important before deciding on the best security system. Before we proceed, consider reading: ‘Essential Tips for Improving Business Facility Security’.
Types of Security Systems for Small Businesses
1. Video Surveillance Systems
These systems use cameras and recording devices to monitor the premises, inside and outside. You get visual evidence in case of any incidents and some can be connected to motion sensors that trigger alarms when movement is detected.
2. Access Control Systems
These security systems are electronic controls that regulate who among staff and visitors can visit certain areas. Examples of access control systems include:
- Keycard or keypad entry systems.
- Biometric scanners.
- Intercoms.
3. Alarms and Sensors
These security systems get triggered by physical contact or motion detection. You can also integrate window and door sensors into the alarm. That way, the system raises an alarm when someone tries to gain unauthorized entry via windows or doors.
4. Security Guards
Having security guards on-site is a more traditional approach. They help protect your business, control movements in and out and offer court testimony when there’s a crime against your business.
5. Cybersecurity Measures
Protecting your business’s online presence and data is crucial in today’s digital age. It includes implementing firewalls and anti-virus software and regularly backing up important information.
The Best Security Camera Systems for a Small Business
Visible CCTV and hidden spy cameras are all part of an effective security setup. Visible security cameras could discourage potential intruders. That said, bold intruders may vandalize the cameras and proceed with their criminal activities, so hiding some cameras is also important.
We recommend strategically placing visible and hidden cameras throughout your business premises. Even when you cannot prevent the crime, at least have video evidence to pursue compensation and prosecution.
Security camera systems vary; some are more suitable for big corporations than small companies. As a small business owner, you must find the right balance of cost and features when selecting one.
The following are some key considerations when installing it.
1. Clarity
High-resolution cameras are crucial for clear footage that can aid in identifying individuals or incidents. Look for cameras with at least 1080p resolution and a high frames-per-second (FPS) rate for smooth playback.
Pixelated or unclear footage may not be useful in identifying culprits or providing evidence during court proceedings.
2. Motion Detection and Night Vision
Motion detection technology is a must-have for any security camera system. This feature ensures that you only record when there’s movement, saving storage space and making it easier to review footage.
Night vision capabilities are also important, especially if your business premises are in poorly lit areas. Infrared sensors help to capture clear footage even in the dark, so you enjoy round-the-clock surveillance.
3. Bullet vs. Dome Cameras
Bullet cameras are cylindrical and usually mounted on walls or ceilings. The visible presence can help deter potential intruders.
Dome cameras are more discreet and blend in with the surroundings. They offer a wider view range and are less prone to vandalism as they’re often out of reach.
If possible, we recommend having both.
4. The Video Management System
A video management system (VMS) allows you to store, manage, and view recorded footage from your security cameras. It can also send real-time alerts for any suspicious activity.
For small businesses, a cloud-based VMS may be more cost-effective as it eliminates the need for on-site servers and maintenance.
An on-premise VMS may be a better choice if you have sensitive data or prefer an offline storage option. One thing to consider, however, is that you’ll need in-house staff to manage the system, increasing your expenses.
5. Integration and Automation
Integration and automation are important aspects of any security system. Though most traditional security systems are separate entities, integrating them can provide a more comprehensive and efficient approach to protecting your business.
For example, you can link your video surveillance system with your access control system to monitor events while controlling who enters and exits.
Automation can also help streamline processes and reduce the risk of human error. For instance, it can set up automatic backups for important data or schedule maintenance checks for security equipment.
6. Remote Monitoring and Access
Advancements in technology have made it possible to monitor your business premises from anywhere, at any time. Look for camera systems with remote monitoring capabilities.
It lets you access live footage or recorded videos via online devices. Some VMS systems even alert you via push notifications if there’s suspicious movement or potential threats.
Remote access also allows you to check in on your business during non-business hours or while away on vacation.
7. Scalability and Future-Proofing
As your business grows, you may need additional cameras or higher-resolution upgrades. So, go for IP cameras that you can easily combine with others as security devices and systems.
That way, you won’t have to replace your entire system when there’s a need for more coverage or advanced features like AI.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning are also gaining popularity by the day. They provide advanced analytics and object recognition capabilities.
Investing in a system compatible with these technologies can future-proof your business and provide more comprehensive surveillance.
8. Audio Capabilities
Audio capabilities may also be beneficial for your small business. Some security camera systems offer two-way audio, allowing you to communicate with visitors or intruders in real-time.
Audio also provides further context and extra weight during investigations and prosecutions. It adds an extra dimension that helps unravel names, plots, and accomplices.
Call Us for Installation and Maintenance Services
Choosing the right security camera system is only the first step. For it to work effectively, you’ll also need to properly install and manage it.
At Kentucky Secured, our professional installation services strategically place security cameras to cover all your vulnerabilities. We also offer ongoing maintenance and support to keep your system running smoothly.
Contact us today.