Commercial Security

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

September 5 2023

How to Choose a Security System for Your Business

Laura Thurston Commercial Security

In today’s dynamic business landscape, ensuring the safety of your company premises, assets, and employees is paramount. A robust security system can provide you with the peace of mind you need to focus on growing your business. But with the myriad of options available, how do you select the ideal security system for your unique business needs? Let’s delve into the essential considerations that will guide you toward making the right choice.

Assess Your Business’s Needs

Before you start exploring security options, take stock of your business’s specific requirements. Are you primarily concerned with theft prevention, vandalism, employee safety, or a combination of these? Consider the layout of your property, the number of entry points, and the hours of operation. Identifying your needs will help you narrow down the features that matter most.

How to Choose a Security System for Your Business

Evaluate Security System Components

A comprehensive security system comprises various components. These may include surveillance cameras, motion detectors, access control systems, alarms, and monitoring services. Each component serves a different purpose. For instance, high-definition cameras with night vision are ideal for recording visual evidence, while access control systems limit entry to authorized personnel only. Assess which components align with your needs.

Scalability and Future Growth

As your business expands, your security needs might change. Opt for a system that is scalable and can accommodate additional features or coverage areas. This adaptability ensures that your security solution grows with your business, saving you from the need to replace the entire system down the line.

Remote Access

In an increasingly connected world, having remote monitoring capabilities can be a game-changer. With the ability to access live feeds and receive real-time alerts on your smartphone or computer, you can keep tabs on your business even when you’re not on-site. This feature adds an extra layer of convenience and control to your security measures.

Professional Monitoring Services:

Professional monitoring services can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your security system. These services involve trained experts who monitor your premises around the clock and can dispatch emergency responders if an alarm is triggered. Consider whether you want to manage monitoring in-house or outsource it to a reputable provider.

Budget Considerations

While security is a crucial investment, it’s important to consider your budget. Determine how much you’re willing to allocate for your security system, including installation, equipment, and ongoing maintenance. Keep in mind that while cost is a factor, the value and peace of mind a reliable security system brings are equally important.

In conclusion, choosing the right security system for your business involves a careful evaluation of your specific needs, available technology, and budget. By assessing these factors, you can make an informed decision that will help safeguard your business, assets, and employees. Remember, a well-chosen security system not only protects your business today but also prepares you for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Speak with one of our knowledgeable security consultants to find out how smarter access control could benefit your business.

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August 13 2023

How to Deter Crime with Effective Lighting

Laura Thurston Commercial Security

Ensuring the safety and security of your business premises is a top priority for any business owner. One effective way to deter crime and enhance security is through proper illumination. Adequate lighting not only creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for customers and employees but also serves as a powerful deterrent to criminals. In this article, we will explore the importance of effective illumination in deterring crime and provide practical tips on how to illuminate your business effectively.

Security Cameras and lights Proper lighting plays a crucial role in deterring criminal activity. Well-lit areas provide better visibility, making it difficult for criminals to hide and go unnoticed. This increased visibility makes it easier for security personnel and surveillance systems to identify suspicious activities

Adequate lighting creates the perception that a business is well-maintained and monitored. Criminals are less likely to target well-lit areas as they believe there is a higher chance of being caught. Not only does lighting deter crime but also enhances the safety of employees and customers. Well-lit parking lots, entrances, and walkways reduce the risk of accidents and make people feel more secure.

Now that we understand the importance of illumination in crime prevention, let’s explore practical ways to illuminate your business effectively.

Tips for Effective Business Illumination

Assess Your Property

Start by conducting a thorough assessment of your business property. Identify areas that require better lighting, such as entrances, parking lots, alleys, and building perimeters.

Use Adequate Lighting

Invest in high-quality lighting fixtures that provide sufficient illumination for each area. LED lights are energy-efficient and produce bright, clear light. Motion-activated lights can also be beneficial in areas with less foot traffic, as they conserve energy while providing instant illumination when needed.

Consider Lighting Control Systems

Implement lighting control systems that allow you to adjust the brightness and timing of your lights. This not only helps save energy but also ensures that your property is well-lit during critical times, such as evening hours and overnight.

Use Natural Lighting

Maximize the use of natural lighting during daylight hours. This not only reduces energy costs but also enhances the overall ambiance of your business. Install windows, skylights, or glass doors strategically to allow natural light to penetrate the interior.

Regular Maintenance

Ensure that all lighting fixtures are in good working order. Replace bulbs and fixtures that are dim or malfunctioning promptly. Regular maintenance ensures consistent lighting levels and helps prevent potential security breaches due to faulty lighting.

Illuminate Signage

Properly lit business signage not only promotes your brand but also enhances security. Well-lit signage can deter criminals by drawing attention to your establishment, even from a distance.

Educate Employees

Train your employees to be aware of the importance of lighting in security. Encourage them to report any malfunctioning lights or suspicious activities.

Effective illumination is a powerful tool in deterring crime and enhancing the safety and security of your business. By investing in proper lighting solutions and implementing the tips mentioned above, you can create a safer environment for your employees and customers while sending a clear message to potential criminals that your business is vigilant and secure. Remember that a well-lit business not only prevents crime but also fosters a positive and welcoming atmosphere for all stakeholders.

Ready to take the next step in securing your business? Contact one of our security experts today for a comprehensive audit of your business’s security measures. With their expertise, you can develop a customized plan to further fortify your premises and provide peace of mind for you, your employees, and your customers. Don’t wait—prioritize safety and security today!

June 15 2023

Is Your Vehicle Secure?

Laura Thurston Commercial Security, Smart Home Security

Vehicle theft is an ever-present concern today, with thieves becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods. As a leading security provider in Eastern Ontario, we understand the importance of protecting your valuable assets. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 10 most stolen vehicles in recent years, shed light on the alarming rise in auto theft rates, and introduce our innovative solution, Connected Car, which combines physical and digital security measures to keep your vehicle safe.

2013-2018 Toyota RAV4, 2011-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, & 2018-2021 Honda Accords have all become popular choices for car thieves in Ontario.

1999-2006 Chevrolet/GMC Silverado/Sierra 1500, 2011-2018 RAM 1500 Series, & 2013-2019 Toyota Highlander

2016-2021 Honda Civic, 2015-2020 Ford F-150 Series, 2016-2021 Lexus RX Series continue our countdown of most popular stolen cars in ontario.

The Honda CR-V tops the list of the most stolen vehicles, likely due to its popularity and high demand in the market. Its reliability and resale value make it a prime target for thieves seeking to profit from the stolen vehicle market.

The Alarming Rise in Auto Theft Rates

Even if your vehicle is not on the top 10 list of most popular stolen cars in Ontario you should still consider added security for your vehicle. In Ontario, there is a vehicle stolen every 48 minutes, highlighting the pervasive nature of auto theft. Shockingly, the auto theft rate has surged by 72% from 2014 to 2021, and in the past year alone, it has risen by 14 percent. These statistics emphasize the urgent need for robust security measures to protect your vehicle.

How Connected Car from Alarm Systems Can Help

We understand the evolving landscape of vehicle security. That’s why we offer Connected Car, an advanced product and service designed to provide comprehensive protection for your vehicle.

Connected Car leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance your vehicle’s security. Through real-time alerts and notifications, you receive instant updates on your mobile device, keeping you informed about any suspicious activities or unauthorized access attempts. Whether it’s a door being unlocked or the ignition being turned on, you can take immediate action.

GPS Tracking

Features like GPS tracking, enable you to monitor your vehicle’s location in real-time. This capability proves invaluable in recovering your vehicle swiftly in the unfortunate event of theft. You can even set up geofence boundaries, receiving alerts if your vehicle enters or exits designated areas, further enhancing security and control.

Remote Features

Connected Car-location services Connected Car offers convenience alongside security. Remote start and lock/unlock capabilities allow you to control your vehicle from anywhere, ensuring it’s warmed up on chilly mornings or securely locked even when you’re far away.

Vehicle Diagnostics

Connected Car provides comprehensive vehicle diagnostics and health reports. Stay on top of maintenance needs with alerts for low fuel, battery status, and engine issues, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

With the alarming rise in auto theft rates, it’s crucial to take proactive measures to protect your vehicle. By investing in Connected Car, you gain the advantage of both physical and digital security, providing unmatched protection and convenience for your valuable asset.

Don’t leave your vehicle’s security to chance. With our expertise and the advanced features of Connected Car, you can have peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is protected inside and out.

Speak with one of our security consultants. To learn more about How Connected Car can help protect your vehicle.

Request a Quote Today

ADC Remote Access Contol. Man unlocks a building with his phone for employee locked outside

May 25 2023

Smarter Access Control For Your Business

Laura Thurston Commercial Security

Does your business still rely on keys, or a complicated standalone access solution? It’s time to invest in a unified, cloud-based security platform.

Here are 5 reasons to upgrade to smarter access control today.

Enhanced Security

Access control systems offer advanced security features to protect your business premises. You can control who enters specific areas, restrict access during certain times, and monitor entry points remotely. This helps prevent unauthorized access, theft, and other security breaches.

Integration and Automation

You can integrate with other security systems and automation features, such as video surveillance, intrusion detection, and smart devices. This integration allows for a comprehensive security solution, where various systems work together seamlessly to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Remote Access and Monitoring

Remotely manage and monitor your business’s access points from anywhere, using a mobile app or web portal. This provides real-time visibility into who is entering and leaving your premises, enabling you to respond quickly to any suspicious activity or emergencies.

Audit Trails and Reporting

Woman uses a key card and a popup text informs someone that the building has been accessed Smart access control system can provide detailed audit trails and reporting capabilities. You can track access history, generate reports on employee activity, and review entry logs. This information can be invaluable for investigations, compliance purposes, or identifying potential security issues.

Cost Savings

While the initial investment in an access control system may seem significant, it can save you money in the long run. By eliminating the need for physical keys and locks, reducing the risk of theft or security breaches, and improving operational efficiency, you can potentially reduce costs associated with security incidents and maintenance.

With our all-in-one security solution essential systems communicate and work together, resulting in more insight and control with less onsite infrastructure to maintain. Our cloud-based technology and intuitive interfaces make managing your business easier and smarter.

Speak with one of our knowledgeable security consultants to find out how smarter access control could benefit your business.

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May 17 2023

How a Security System Can Help You Save on Insurance

Laura Thurston Commercial Security, Smart Home Security

Home security is an important consideration for any homeowner. Not only does it help protect your home and family, but it can also have an impact on your insurance premiums. Savings will vary from provider to provider, based on the type of security system you have installed, and if the system is being actively monitored or not. Let’s take a closer look at the relationship between home security and insurance, and how a security system can help you save money.

How Home Security Affects Insurance Premiums

Home insurance is designed to provide financial protection in the event of damage or loss to your home and belongings. Insurance companies use a variety of factors to determine the cost of your premiums, including the level of risk associated with your property. One of the factors that can affect your insurance premiums is the level of home security you have in place.

Insurance companies may offer discounts to homeowners who have installed certain types of security systems, such as monitored burglar alarms, fire alarms, environmental alarms, and surveillance cameras. These systems can reduce the risk of damage or loss to your property, making it less likely that you will file a claim with your insurance company.

Insurance companies may also consider the level of crime in your area. If you live in an area with a high rate of burglary or theft, insurance companies may consider your home to be at a higher risk and charge you a higher premium as a result.

How a Security System Can Help You Save

By installing a security system in your home, you may be able to qualify for discounts on your home insurance premiums. Depending on your insurance provider, you may be able to save up to 20% on your premiums by installing a security system.

In addition to potential cost savings on insurance premiums, a security system can also provide peace of mind knowing that your home and family are protected. With a security system in place, you can monitor your home remotely, receive alerts when someone enters your property, and quickly notify authorities in the event of an emergency.

When shopping for a security system, look for one that is professionally installed and monitored. Many insurance companies require that security systems be installed by a professional to qualify for discounts on premiums.

Investing in a home security system not only helps protect your home and family but can also help you save money on your insurance premiums. Be sure to compare different security system options to find the system that meets your needs and fits within your budget. And don’t forget to inform your insurance provider of any changes you make to your home security system to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your coverage.

Speak with your insurance provider to learn if you could save on your premiums. Contact one of our security consultants to learn more about upgrading your security in your home or business.

security camera covered by bird droppings

March 10 2023

Why Neglecting the Maintenance on Your Security Cameras Could Leave You Vulnerable

Laura Thurston Commercial Security

Security cameras are an important investment for businesses, as they provide an essential layer of protection against theft, vandalism, and other types of criminal activity. However, owning a security camera is not enough to ensure your safety and security. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your cameras functioning optimally and to prevent potential security vulnerabilities. In this article, we will review the reasons why regular maintenance is not just for your cameras it’s good for your business.

Ensure Proper Functioning

Hands performing maintenance on a ceiling mounted security camera One of the most important reasons to perform regular maintenance on your security cameras is to ensure that they are functioning properly. Like any other piece of electronic equipment, security cameras can malfunction over time.

Many CCTV systems continuously recording on their hard drives causing wear. Even the best hard drives can only over written so many times. If you are only checking your live feed you may not even be aware your hard drive has failed until you have a problem and you need to check past footage.

Regular maintenance can help detect and address any issues before they become major problems, preventing downtime and reducing repair costs.

Extend the Lifespan of Your Cameras

Regular maintenance can also help extend the lifespan of your security cameras. By keeping them clean and well-maintained, you can prevent damage caused by dirt, dust, and other environmental factors. This can help you avoid costly replacements or repairs in the long run.

Prevent Security Vulnerabilities

Over time your cameras may be compromised in a number of ways. For example dirt or debris blocking the lens and obscuring footage or causing the image to be out of focus. Or they may have been adjusted by accident or with malicious intent so their coverage has been reduced. Regular maintenance helps identify these issues before they negatively impact your ability to monitor your property.

Security cameras are also not immune to cyber threats. Regular maintenance can help prevent security vulnerabilities such as hacking or unauthorized access. For example, you should regularly update your camera’s firmware and change default passwords to prevent unauthorized access.

Why Neglecting the Maintenance on Your Security Cameras Could Leave You Vulnerable

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your security cameras functioning optimally and protecting your property from potential threats. By performing regular maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your cameras, prevent security vulnerabilities and improve video quality. So, make sure to prioritize regular maintenance for your security cameras to keep your property safe and secure.

November 24 2022

Why You Need Security Cameras for Your Construction Project

Laura Thurston Commercial Security

The increased cost of materials, fuel, and equipment have made construction sites a prime target for theft over the past year. Thieves take advantage of construction sites because they are often isolated and lack reliable power or communication to support traditional security. It is important for project managers to understand that modern video surveillance devices can be set up to protect even isolated work sites.

Increase Awareness

AI Powered Security Camera Security cameras allow you to keep an eye on your work site 24/7. This doesn’t simply involve monitoring for potential thieves. Powerful video AI can alert staff to people, vehicles, and unexpected activity. Reducing false alarms and improving surveillance quality.

Installing cameras in your construction site improves awareness and health & safety. Common areas to cover include exits and entrances to the site, storage areas, and heavy equipment. You should try to have the broadest area of coverage possible.

Protect Your Supplies & Equipment

The presence of security cameras can deter thieves. Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte surveyed hundreds of convicted burglars to determine their decision-making path when choosing which properties to target. The study found that 83% of convicted burglars said they would try to see if any surveillance equipment was in use prior to committing burglary. Of those questioned, 60% said they would move on to another target if they detected any equipment.

Coupled with monitoring solutions like video verification, you can improve police response time in the event thieves weren’t initially deterred.

Recover Lost Materials

If there is an incident, security cameras may provide footage of actual crimes or accidents. This is a useful tool in identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting criminals, preventing further crimes, and retrieving stolen goods. Law enforcement can use the video to identify criminals and it can also be used by your insurance company to verify the circumstances surrounding incidents occurring at your business to determine liability.

How do my cameras work without an internet connection?

Today we can quickly deploy solutions that create temporary networks, even in places where it is too difficult or expensive to have dedicated infrastructure. By tapping into the increased available bandwidth in cellular networks, it is now possible to build cost-effective solutions that can easily be set up and maintained. Tools such as G4/LTE gateways can connect cameras in temporary locations such as construction sites.

Speak to a Security Consultant Today

Construction sites are prime targets for opportunist thieves because they are difficult to effectively watch after hours. A remote surveillance solution can help you protect your investment. Speak to a security consultant today about securing your construction site.

November 10 2022

PERs for Workers

Laura Thurston Commercial Security, Medical

There are a number of workplace health and safety measures employees can leverage to protect their employees, but policy is often not enough. For lone workers in remote, late-night, or high-risk jobs adding another level of protection is essential.

Using a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS), lone workers and their employers benefit from the ability to remain connected for protection, safety. They can also help reduce liability. With a medical alert system, each device is connected to a monitoring center and will be able to alert an emergency service should a dire situation occur.

How Does a Personal Emergency Response System Work?

PERS units are small devices designed to be worn around your neck or attached to a belt. They are GPS-enabled allowing them to be effective almost anywhere. In the event of an emergency, a PERS device will transmit a reliable alarm signal. With the press of a button, the device utilizes two-way voice to connect the lone worker to a monitoring center to ensure their safety.

It is more than a panic button. Combined with industry-leading, highly accurate fall detection capabilities, a PERS device delivers immediate incident notification and protection – ideal for lone workers in the retail and delivery service sector including warehouse, customer-facing retail, and delivery services.

What is a lone worker?

A lone worker is anyone who carries out a work activity away from co-workers and without close or direct supervision from an employer. These workers are not necessarily working in complete isolation, but rather not directly under supervision. This may include Healthcare workers, employees who work in large warehouses or noisy manufacturing floors, or those who work late shifts or alone.

Dangerous Environments

Construction Workers

Warehouse Workers

Manufacturing

Wastewater Treatment

Lone Workers

Social Workers

Home Healthcare Workers

Real Estate Agents

Delivery Drivers

Customer Facing

Security Guards

Hospitality Workers

Retail Employees

Teachers

Any worker who is routinely unsupervised can benefit from the peace of mind of PERS. They can signal for help easily and have their location transmitted instantly. Remote or lone workers can confidently go about their work with the assurance they have instant access to help when the need arises when using a medical alert system.

What are the benefits of a Personal Emergency Response System?

In an emergency the benefits of PERS are clear. Quick and reliable help for vulnerable workers no matter where they might be. Even without an emergency, they empower workers to be independent and feel safe. They also provide employees with visibility, allowing them to ensure the safety of employees by monitoring devices remotely.

Worker safety should always be a top priority for your team. Flexible solutions allow employers to customize monitoring options and emergency responses. Making it easy to ensure safety and provide fast support when it is needed.

Do My Employees Need a Personal Emergency Response System?

Lone workers in remote, late-night, or high-risk jobs benefit most directly. PERS delivers peace of mind for staff and management, knowing that workers can call for help anytime, anywhere. To learn more about PERS for workers speak to a security consultant.

August 29 2022

Biometric Access Control For Your Business

Laura Thurston Commercial Security

While an access card or password can be misplaced, stolen, or cloned, Biometric access solutions ensures that the only people accessing your facility are the ones who have permission. Today’s Biometric access control solutions help businesses increase security by better controlling access credentials and protecting user privacy.

What is biometric authentication?

Biometric authentication is a security process that uses your unique biological characteristics to verify that you are who you say you are. This involves a complex mathematical formula to verify you based on your physical metrics.

Simply, biometric authentication allows you to better protect secured areas. The most common types of biometric authentication are fingerprints, iris scanners, and facial recognition.

Biometric Access Control For Your Business

Is Biometric Access Control Right for My Business?

Facial biometrics for authentication offer the highest grade of security and the best user experience while protecting the privacy of users.

Biometrics are inherently more secure and convenient than keys, cards, and PIN codes. They are becoming increasingly popular as a security solution of the digital age, especially in the workplace. Facial recognition is perfectly suited for physical access control: unlocking doors, safes, and turnstiles for authorized personnel because it is quick and secure.

What doors are best suited for Biometric Access?

Biometric access solutions can be used for just about any door. Our solution seamlessly integrates with many leading enterprise access control systems. However, it is not always practical to replace all access points with a biometric reader. Here are 3 types of doors that may be the best fit:

High Security Doors

These doors may require 2 factor authentication for added security. Using biometric data as one factor makes spoofing these entrances more difficult. They are also more secure because critical credentials such as pins and key cards can be shared whereas biometric data can not.

For Example: Cash rooms, evidence rooms, security rooms, data storage.

These access points are typically where users enter a business and must present credentials. Biometric access control ensures everyone entering is the correct person as there is no sharing credentials. It also helps increase the security of all the other doors, since everyone beyond that point has already been verified on some level.

For Example: Employee entrances, security checkpoints.

What if I don’t want to have my image included in a database?

Up until now, facial biometric authentication would compare your individual data against a database of collected images or video stills. While this is still how most facial biometric verification works, updates in facial recognition technology allow for the elimination of a picture database providing a more private experience for the user.

Stonelock, for instance, uses near-infrared technology to capture reflectivity data that is not visible to the naked eye. Mapping data points on your face but not storing any images or data such as gender, ethnicity, or age. This allows them to protect users’ privacy better than any facial biometric product on the market has before.

Speak to an Access Control Specialist Today

StoneLock delivers a frictionless, trusted, and revolutionary approach to secure facial authentication. Speak to a member of our sales team and discover how easy it is to integrate StoneLock GO.

June 24 2022

Should You have Your Security Cameras Serviced?

Laura Thurston Commercial Security

Security Camera maintenance may not be a top priority for many business owners, after all, ‘if it ain’t broke, why fix it’? But regular maintenance is important to the longevity and reliability of your cameras. Without regular and diligent maintenance – both ‘digital’ and physical – the quality of video images will start to erode, and the risks of failure increase.

Why Does My Camera system need maintenance?

The need for the ‘digital’ maintenance of surveillance cameras – specifically through the timely application of firmware and software upgrades – is well understood as being necessary to sustain and monitor performance, and for effective cybersecurity. However, the physical maintenance of surveillance cameras, which is no less important for peak performance, is often less rigorous. This can lead to degraded quality of video which can impact post-incident investigations and be costly.

Human operators can cope with views of scenes that are ‘good enough’ but necessary details may be lost when it is most critical. For today’s A.I.-powered cameras, the images are being ‘viewed’ in an entirely different way. Processing units look at data – whereas humans look at images – and the impact of unclear images can be huge. There’s no way for a processor to ‘see around’ a partially obscured view.

A.I. Powered cameras do more than record, they can identify and notify of of suspicious or unexpected activity in real time.

Make cameras part of your infrastructure maintenance plan.

You should add your cameras to your maintenance plan. This could include cleaning them as regularly as you have your windows cleaned to ensure a clear view, especially important for exterior cameras. Dirt build-up on a cameras’ casing can obscure details and spider webs, invisible during the day can become a problem at night when the camera’s infrared sensors hit them.

Regular reviews of your surveillance system are also important, especially if you don’t have someone assigned to review your cameras daily. There is nothing worse than an incident occurring and when you go to check the footage you discover the camera has been obscured or offline.

Things you should check for:

Are they operational & recording?

Are they still pointed in the right place?

Is anything obscuring their view?

What is your storage capacity?

A security camera maintenance plan will help maintain the quality of your system. It may also be worth speaking to your supplier about a service plan. Have a technician inspect your cameras annually, to check cabling and other components are in proper working condition. This will help identify potential issues early and allow for pre-failure intervention.

Speak to a Security Consultant Today

Surveillance cameras represent a significant investment for any organization. Regular and effective physical maintenance is essential to ensure your investment remains reliable for the longest possible time. Speak to a security consultant today to learn about our camera service plans.

Invest in a Camera Service Plan Today - Request a Quote