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Commercial Security

News and updates from Alarm Systems about business security, video cameras, access management, and alarm monitoring for your business.

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PowerG: The Power of Wires, Without The Wires

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Cut out the wires and plug-in peace of mind with PowerG, the leading wireless security technology for today’s homes and businesses. PowerG offers all the benefits of traditional wired security, without the hassles and vulnerabilities of wires.

Secure

PowerG devices use ultra-reliable, two-way 128-bit AES encrypted communication. This iron-clad protection blocks interference delivering unparalleled cyber protection – ensuring reliable performance with minimum false alarms.

PowerG Sensors take proactive measures against malicious attacks like Radio Frequency (RF) jamming by using a practice known as Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS). This process involves splitting the RF bandwidth into multiple channels.

The transmitter (the PowerG Sensor) and the receiver (the alarm panel) both agree on a set of channel hopping sequences that will take place and they can switch between channels rapidly. A potential intruder would never be able to adjust a RF jamming device quickly enough to effectively block a signal.

They are also certified with ULC Wireless Commercial Burglary Listing 1, 2 and 3 – an industry first in Canada! The approval means these products have been certified under the highest level of requirements for commercial applications.

Did You Know:

RF jamming is any malicious technique that prevents wireless signals from reaching their intended destination. This is accomplished by blocking the receiver with a stronger signal at the same wireless frequency as the device that is legitimately trying to communicate with it.

When this is done on an alarm system, the system doesn’t receive the incoming signals from sensors, and no action is taken during a security breach or an unfavourable environmental condition. Early wireless sensors did not take this into account, and this made RF jamming an effective way to defeat an older wireless system.

Convenient

The Long-range wireless transmission enables easy, quick wire-free and repeater-free installations. Adaptive transmission stretches time between battery changes and reduces service costs.

Extended Range

Devices communicate up to 2km/1.24 miles line-of-sight, which is 4X the distance of traditional wireless.

Long Battery Life

Adaptive Transmission Technology automatically adjusts transmission power & maximizes battery life.

Easy to Install

PowerG Devices simplify installation by reducing the cabling that needs to be installed. 

PowerG offers arguably the best wireless range in the security industry. Its powerful signal can help you overcome the range issues that other sensor lineups may experience. It is great for use in detached garages, barns, multi-building complexes, and even large industrial buildings.

PowerG devices include a range of panels, intrusion detectors, safety sensors, and more. Speak to one of our Security Consultants to learn more.  

Man reviews heatmapping security camera footage

Security Innovations Changing the way We Do Business

Smart Security with Video Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Video surveillance has been used for years to both deter and document criminal activity. The technology powering security cameras has evolved to include powerful AI and analytics tools that help keep workplaces safer and improve business efficiency.

Cameras not only record behaviour but provide valuable insights into business operations while sending real-time notifications in response to problems. For instance, heat mapping can be used to understand customer behaviour enabling adjustments that drive revenue. Alternatively, tools like Queue management notify staff when customer waiting times are too long or there are too many people in an area.

Visual data, video analytics and intelligent alerts can streamline security and improve operational efficiency. These tools include:

People, object & vehicle detection
Abandoned or removed objects
Crowd formation & queue management
Heat maps

Greater Efficiency with IIOT

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) is connecting millions of different devices, improving efficiency and saving money. From simple wireless temperature sensors to precise reporting on humidity, light, liquid, vibration and more, IIOT is allowing businesses to monitor more devices in one central place.

IIOT Technology can be configured for almost any industrial application. Businesses can save manpower previously used reviewing measuring tools or lower costs with pre-failure intervention which reduces downtime.

Convenience with Remote Control of Video & Access Management

iphone with Alarm.com app indicating which doors are lockedSmart Security Systems are connected to secure networks that give business owners the freedom to step away from their businesses while remaining in control and being able to check-in. Networked security cameras allow you to access your surveillance system remotely. Enhanced with AI, your cameras become an active tool for monitoring your business, sending notifications for significant events.

Keeping an eye on your business isn’t the only thing you can do when you’re away. Business owners no longer have to answer early morning calls to come in to unlock the store because the opening staff don’t have a key. Digital access control allows business owners to easily manage access from anywhere with their mobile devices. That means you can update an existing key card to add or remove access to a door, unlock the door remotely, or add a time-specific pin code for a user remotely.

Smart Security Solutions no longer simply protect your business, they work for your business. Improving efficiency and giving business owners the data they need to make better decisions. Whether you are a small business that wants to keep an eye on your shopfront or an enterprise business that needs to monitor millions of square feet, our security consultants can create a custom solution to meet your unique needs. Get in touch with a specialist today to learn how.

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False Alarm Programs, What Are They?

With the continuing growth of the use of security alarm systems in homes and businesses, police services in many jurisdictions are faced with the challenge of responding to false alarms in huge numbers. Police are reporting as much as 97% of alarms are false creating a significant impact on police resources.

police car graphic with police offer standing next to itThe Belleville Police Service reports that False Alarms are “one of the most significant misuses of police resources” and since the implementation of their False Alarm Reduction Program they have reduced the number of False Alarms they report to by 47%

In response, Police departments across Canada have begun implementing programs to reduce the number of false alarm calls their officers are being dispatched to. By reducing the financial costs associated with attending false alarms departments can reallocate resources where they would be more beneficial.

Large jurisdictions such as Toronto, York Region, Hamilton, Niagara, and Waterloo are disregarding intrusion alarms without proof of a criminal event. Local jurisdictions such as Belleville, Kingston, & Ottawa have as well. 

What is a False Alarm?

A false alarm is defined by the Belleville Police Service as “any alarm the activation of which results in police attending the premises at which the alarm is located, where there has not been any unauthorized entry into the premises and includes the activation of the alarm by testing, malfunction or by accident.”

What Triggers False Alarms?

There are a few common causes of false alarms for both fire and security systems, although specifics are variable across industries. They include the following:

table Common Causes of False Alarms

The majority (nearly a third of all false alarms) originate from employees who have not been properly trained or have triggered an alarm by accident. Faulty equipment, pets and weather are also common causes of false alarms. 

What is the Penalty for a False Alarm in Belleville?

The Security Alarm System Response Policy from Belleville Police Service outlines the fees for both home and commercial false alarms.

1st False Alarm: $0

2nd False Alarm: $50.00

3rd False Alarm: $100.00

4th & Subsequent False Alarms: $200.00

How can I avoid False Alarms?

Training

Make sure you and your employees are familiar with your security system. Familiarize yourself with your panel’s user manual, memorize and practice your security code, and ensure adequate training for anyone responsible for arming or disarming the system.

Secure

Close all windows and doors securely before arming your system. Windows or doors that are not properly closed may open after the system is armed triggering an alarm.

Upgrade Your System

Consider upgrading your system to include AI technology. Invest in cameras that leverage smart analytics to differentiate between animals, people, vehicles or debris.

Consider Your Pets

Understand how your pets may impact your system. Invest in pet-friendly motion detection or don’t install motion in areas where pets are secured while the system is armed. Newer cameras use AI to differentiate between pets and people to help avoid false alarms.

Regular Service

Ensure you are changing device batteries regularly where required. Wireless devices are designed to operate for years without requiring new batteries but will eventually need to be changed.

What is Video Verification?

Our monitoring center can vet an alarm signal by tapping into on-premise video and identifying the cause of the alarm. They are then able to dismiss false alarms or notify the police a crime is in progress with real-time updates for the police responding.

An increasing number of Police Departments have adopted verified alarm programs in the past few years. These programs are designed to reduce misuse of police resources and free up officers for legitimate calls. Video Verification platforms create a level of service from a live monitoring center agent that deters crime, reduces false alarms and increases the police response time during a critical event.

Stop False Alarms with
Video Verification

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feature Image - Access Control for Businesses, business man using keycard on door

How a Smart Access Control Solution Will Benefit Your Business

Improved Awareness

An Access Control Solution creates transparency about who is accessing your business and when. Digital access tools such as pin codes, key cards, and FOBs can be individually programmed ensuring every employee only has access where and when they need it.

Generate reports around who accesses your business and when.
Check in in real-time at any moment to see who is in the building.
Receive notifications on unexpected activity.
Easily manage access for multiple locations.

Better Reporting

With digital access control, all access is logged, including failed attempts. This provides business owners with insight into who is accessing your building and what happens after hours. 

Entrepass by KantechYour Access Control system can even be used as a secondary punch clock. Because each access card or pin can be linked to a specific employee it is easy to pull reports on when they entered the building.

How is Access Control Better than the Keys I am using?

Physical keys create several unintended risks, the leading one being: what happens when a key is lost or stolen?

Rekeying doors is expensive and having an unaccounted-for key is a major security risk. With an Access Control System, you have complete control of who has access to your business and when. You can deactivate devices at any time. If a key is lost, stolen, or never recovered from a former employee, you can remove its access and protect your business.

Access Control also allows you to remotely secure or grant access. This reduces the frustration and wasted time if an employee forgets to lock up properly or gets locked out.

Smart Business Automation

Many businesses are looking for ways to improve operational efficiency and one of the best is automation. Integrating an Access Control system into your security helps automate simple everyday functions such as unlocking the doors at 9 am.

Tie in your lights and temperature into your access control system. That way lighting, heating, and air can turn on at designated times when employees and customers are in various parts of your facility. This level of automation can make things simpler for your business while also reducing energy costs.

Keycard access for internal Access ControlCustomized Access

Create custom rules that provide access for delivery drivers or service professionals at specified times or restrict access to personnel after hours. Access can be customized based on schedules or what parts of your business an employee needs access to.

What is the Solution?

Controlling access to your business is even easier with Managed Access Control. Avoid the hassle and investment of expensive specialized hardware by leaving it to us.

Alarm Systems both hosts and manages the database, server applications and hardware infrastructure. We provide all functionality and needs of the account and components.

You can perform day-to-day operations from the secure web client or app; no training or specialized knowledge is required. This is a wonderful solution for businesses that want to leave security to the experts and focus on what they do best.

Our team is here to manage your access control solution, so you don’t have to. Contact us for a no-cost security audit today.

Security Cameras for Business Feature Banner

How Security Cameras Benefit Your Business

Video surveillance offers several benefits for business owners. Not only does it protect against theft, but it also plays a critical role in sustaining your business and making it a safer place to work. Security cameras can benefit your business in several ways. Here are 5 reasons you should invest in security cameras for your business.

Protect Your Business

One of the best ways to protect your place of business, employees and customers is to integrate video surveillance into your security system. Security cameras provide a watchful eye to deter crime and keep you informed. Security cameras can help dissuade thieves and vandals. If a crime is committed the footage collected can be invaluable to internal auditors or police in identifying and prosecuting suspects.

Cameras protect stock or point of sale areas and keep an eye on parts of your business that may be out of line of sight for employees. You can read more on the best places for security cameras in your business in this article.  

Shoppers in a small business protected by security cameras

Know What’s Going on In Your Business

Security Cameras do more than simply deter crime. They allow business owners to stay on top of what is going on at their business even when they aren’t there in person and can offer vital insights into your business. Are employees arriving on time? How are they spending their time while on shift? When are the busiest hours and how is your team handling it?

Video surveillance helps business owners stay informed so they can take steps to improve how their business is run.

Improve Business Decisions (AI)

Heatmapping AI in Security CamerasVideo AI technology has turned security cameras into powerful tools for improving operational efficiency. Heatmapping for instance, identifies high traffic areas which can be used to understand customer behaviour and make adjustments that drive revenue.

Your security cameras can help manage crowds by identifying when lines are forming or be used to improved workflow in a facility by finding bottlenecks.

Safer Workplace

Security cameras can help make your workplace safer. Modern systems have mechanisms such as AI and real-time notifications which help more accurately identify risks. AI can help identify when objects have been abandoned in an area, when individuals are loitering, or if employees are working too closely to dangerous equipment.

Your system can send real-time alerts that can be customized to help you assess the situation. For instance, if a vehicle or person is in a loading area after hours.

Reduce Insurance Rates

Many insurance providers offer discounted rates when you integrate surveillance cameras in your store or office. A dependable indoor or outdoor surveillance system assures your insurance provider you’re taking the necessary steps to protect your business from theft, which makes their job easier and your business less of a liability on their end.

Whether you are a small business that wants to keep an eye on your shopfront or an enterprise business that needs to monitor millions of square feet, our security consultants can create a custom video surveillance solution to meet your unique needs. Get in touch with a specialist today to learn how.

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Where are the Best Places to Install a Commercial Security Camera?

Every business’s budget and security priorities are different, but there are some things you may want to consider when installing a surveillance system. Identifying your business’s vulnerabilities and the areas you’d like to have better awareness of is the first step.

Today’s security cameras are low profile and can be wireless, so they may be installed anywhere, here are some of the most common places to consider.

Point of Sale

Cameras directed at the cash register dissuade both customer and employee theft. Cameras must be placed carefully because a vantage point can mean the difference between seeing interactions on a till and the back of someone’s head.

Reception Area

The reception is a high-traffic location and is typically your business’ primary entrance. It is the first area your employees and visitors step into when they enter your office.

Exterior Loading Docks

Loading docks represent both a vulnerability to your security and potential safety risk. Install security cameras around loading docks to monitor deliveries and outgoing inventory. This not only prevents theft, but also protects your business from incurring losses resulting from false worker compensation claims.

Where are the Best Places to Install a Commercial Security Camera?

Warehouse/Storerooms

Security cameras installed in your warehouse or storeroom are a good way to protect inventory. The presence of such cameras act as a deterrent, and even if theft or fraud does take place, it will be easy for you to identify the culprit. Your warehouse must be well-lit to get clear recordings and images.

Cameras can be your eyes and ears when you’re not available to be on site. Video AI can help identify irregular activity and send you live notifications. The footage can then be stored for review, or you can check in live at any point.

Secluded Areas

Secluded Areas or areas that are not actively used can be vulnerabilities for a business. The lack of traffic makes them ideal for criminal behaviour. Parking lots, back alleys, and dumpsters are important strategic locations for installing security cameras. Vandalism, dumping, theft, and violence can all be reduced if these areas are monitored.

Consider the lighting in these areas as well. Pairing cameras with floodlights work well to dissuade criminals. Speak to a security consultant about the right solution for your property.

Today’s Security Cameras Do So Much More

Modern security cameras feature many new tools to help protect your business. Built-in AI allows you to create digital trip lines, that send automatic notifications when crossed. They can differentiate between people and vehicles which reduces false alarms. And your system can automatically highlight clips for review, reducing the amount of time it takes to review security footage.

Video Analytics for commercial security camerasBest of all, you can check in on your business at any time with remote access from any internet-connected device. Now, even if you are away, you can have an eye on your business.

Integrating security cameras into your security system can help make your businesses safer and more efficient.

Talk to a Professional

There are many variables that can impact where and how you can implement a security camera system. What you want to capture, lighting, even the structure of your building. Before you begin, consider consulting a professional.

Our security consultants have years of experience installing security cameras. They will conduct a no-cost/obligation security audit of your business, ensuring you get the security and awareness you need.

Our technicians can install your system professionally, so there is no need for creative DIY or troubleshooting. Best of all, it can all be run through an easy-to-use app so – whether you have 2 cameras or 20 – you can always be connected.

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How Thermal Cameras are Making Workplaces Safer

The pandemic continues to challenge businesses across Ontario. As we all work together to reduce the spread and move forward. Social distancing and symptom monitoring have become common place for businesses. Thermal cameras are a valuable tool meant to keep everyone on-site at your business safe and healthy.

Watchnet Thermal Camera & Facial recognition access controlThey allow a business to continue implementing safety procedures and quickly identify individuals who might be ill (whether it is flu, COVID, or another contagious condition). While temperature checks are not foolproof, they are a valuable part of an overall preventative strategy.

The quick temperature detection, even with masks, make thermal cameras an excellent option for contactless access control as well.

Why Invest in a Thermal Camera?

Many businesses are turning to handheld thermal sensors to help protect their employees and customers. Handheld infrared thermometers have become common place as they offer relatively low-cost up front, but they have major drawbacks. They require someone to operate them, someone who comes within a few feet of each person being scanned and taking individual temperatures can also lead to lines and crowds at entryways.

Thermal camera systems offer an easier solution. They can scan multiple people at once as they enter the premises and can be fixed and installed out of the way, just like standard security cameras. Thermal cameras allow you to process more individuals at once and can even handle high density traffic flow.

For a low-traffic density option that can be put anywhere within or outside of a property, a stand-alone temperature measurement system is an excellent choice. These systems are plug-and-play and require little to no installation. When an individual approaches it, the devices uses facial recognition and takes their temperature with high precision.

Watchnet_Thermal-Camera
The WatchNET TNC-20-BDC thermal camera is authorized by Health Canada as a Covid-19 Medical Device.

Thermal Cameras Integrate into Your Security System’s Access Control

Thermal camera systems can even be connected to your security system. They augment your security and you can manage them within your existing platform. They can be programed to send notifications when an elevated temperature is detected.

They also integrate with your access control system. Within seconds the thermal camera can detect a subject’s temperature and grant or restrict access.

What businesses can benefit from Thermal Cameras?

A wide variety of industries are implementing thermal cameras to protect employees and customers. Corporate buildings, retailers, labs, factories, data centers, or any facility that already has access gates can all benefit from the addition of thermal camera systems. They help protect your business without adding dedicated extra manpower or negatively impacting traffic flow.

Is a thermal camera right for your business? Speak to one of our security consultants.

Belleville

260 Adam Street
Belleville, ON  K8N 5S4

613-969-5100
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Monitoring Station

Five Diamond Certified Monitoring Station.

1-800-361-6052
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Brockville

15 Central Ave E.
Brockville, ON  K6V 1W5

613-342-5126
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