Virginia has seen a steady decline in property crimes since 2008, and there has not been an increase in property crimes in North Carolina since 2011. There are similar encouraging trends for violent crime. (Property crimes include burglary, larceny, theft, motor vehicle theft, arson, shoplifting, and vandalism. Violent crimes include robbery, along with assault, murder, and rape.) That sounds great, but keep in mind that a decline in crime rates does not necessarily correlate with a reduced risk for your small business in particular. Until the crime rate is zero, a comprehensive business security system offers the best protection against some types of crime. Here is how modern security systems can protect you, your employees, and your business.
Deter Theft
Most criminals take advantage of opportunity. Crime is a predatory behavior with a risk-versus-reward mindset, and the visible portions of a security system act as a powerful deterrent. Criminals know that the presence of a security system increases the risk of being caught the act, and even the most inexperienced know to look for things such as surveillance cameras, alarm panels, motion detectors, and window, door and glass-breakage sensors.
While traditional security systems deter break-ins, surveillance systems can also deter shoplifting and theft by employees for the same reason: the probable risk is perceived to be greater than the potential reward.
Aid in Apprehension and Prosecution
Security provides protection in layers. If deterrence is ineffective, the monitoring portion of a business security system provides the next layer of safety, making it far more likely that police or security personnel will arrive in time to apprehend the burglar. Even if a burglar is not caught in the act, the surveillance portion of the system provides another tool by which they, along with shoplifters and pilfering employees, can be identified and apprehended, as well as evidence to aid in their prosecution.
Control Access
Access control technology permits the people who belong in a controlled space to enter and prohibits entry by those who don’t belong there. It also keeps track of what time permissioned individuals enter and exit, so that if losses occur, they can be associated with the employees who were present at the time. Not only enclosed spaces, but also locked cabinets and racks can be subject to access control technology, making it a practical approach to protect high value inventory like alcohol, cigarettes, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Additionally, it can be used to protect operational areas, equipment, and supplies, including tools, cash, sensitive records, server facilities, and medical examination rooms with the equipment and drugs they contain.
Modern business security systems give the user or administrator the ability to control and monitor their business remotely. From a desktop, tablet, or smartphone, you can change access permissions, lock and unlock doors, and view real-time or recorded video. Systems can be integrated with building control and process control systems. The same interface may give you the ability to monitor and adjust manufacturing processes, control lights and thermostats, and check for flooding, freezing, gas leaks and furnace malfunctions. Of course, systems can be integrated with life safety systems too.
To learn more about the benefits of modern business security systems in Hampton Roads and northeastern North Carolina, visit Johns Brothers Security online or call to discuss your company’s needs: 800-242-9760.