In your store, how can you prevent theft during the holidays?

by Get Stealth Chicago Stealth Security & Home Theatre Systems, Inc

Reducing your inventory due to theft during the holidays may seem inevitable, but there are steps you can take to limit your exposure to this problem. With stores filled with customers and staff working hard to keep shelves stocked, it can be difficult to keep an eye on every item in your store and every customer who visits it. Installing a new security camera system can help prevent or reduce your loss during the next vacation, while giving you time to familiarize yourself with your new system. Here are some ways that security cameras can help your security team reduce losses next year.

Draw attention to your cameras

Don't hide your cameras. When thieves know they are being watched, they may think twice before attacking your store. Post warning signs in areas with more expensive items, at entrances and exits.

Reduce shoplifting

Whether they think they are hidden by the crowd or that there just aren't enough eyes to watch everyone, shoplifters seem to be getting emboldened during the holidays. Clearly visible security cameras deter customers from stealing, so their presence will translate into reduced operating loss. In the event of theft or shoplifting, your surveillance cameras can help the police quickly identify the culprits and help you prosecute them.

Familiarize yourself with your system

Installing your security cameras early allows you to familiarize yourself with your new system and resolve any issues you may encounter during the year. For example, you may find that you need additional camera coverage in specific areas, or a different type of camera than what you originally thought. You can also determine the ideal video storage duration for your business. Although you may choose to start with shorter storage lengths, you may find that you need to store for a longer period due to various factors.

What is the "Cloud" storage of your video surveillance images?

Cloud storage of video surveillance footage is a new service that offers individuals, business people and security managers a variety of secure online document storage options. It is a comprehensive program that allows users to simplify the process of retrieving and storing video information, making it a management system that saves time and money.

How does cloud storage in CCTV work?

Cloud storage uses the Internet to keep all the data recorded by your cameras in a single, dematerialized place, so that it is secure and easy to find. The date and time will be automatically recorded and you will be able to access the cloud server to: view, fast forward, rewind, delete or download the content that your IP camera has recorded. All this can be done in the event that you have a network and a peripheral (telephone, laptop or tablet), via a simple connection to your account.

How to connect to cloud storage with an IP camera?

Creating an account is the first essential step. Then pair your cameras with the cloud storage app. In your settings, set the recording options as "automatic", to ensure that information is automatically saved to the cloud.

Why choose cloud storage?

This system allows you to keep records for as long as you need them. Whether you are recording wildlife outside your home or monitoring your storefront, you can keep the footage for as long as you need or delete it on a scheduled basis after a while, saving you time having to rely on expensive hard drives and especially that we can steal from you.

Having access to your video recordings away from home or your business means that data is better protected. When you had tapes or records inside your property, it was enough for a burglar to grab the footage. If a fire broke out or a disaster occurred, your images were lost forever. Finally, even if you need more cloud storage than a free package will allow, it remains much cheaper in the long run and much more secure.

Do you need to upgrade your video surveillance system?

This is a very good question that you should ask yourself when you have had a video surveillance system for some time. Each year, hundreds of people move into a new home with an already installed security system. However, it is not always clear whether to reactivate this system, to delete it or whether it is time to switch to a new security system.

If it is more than 10 years old, you need a new one!

If it is in working order, try it.

If motion detectors are plugged into the wall with door sensors, it's time to remove this security system and call a company to upgrade and install a system. wireless. If it looks old, then treat yourself and install a new one! Many people are continuously improving the quality of their electronic devices. They should have the same reflex every 5 to 7 years with their home security systems. In addition, the cost of restarting an old system is often higher than that of a new installation. It is therefore more profitable to install a new one.

Is it possible to reconnect it with the current supplier?

Yes, but it is not recommended. In addition, you will miss new promotions offered to new customers, and go directly to classic monthly billing. If the equipment is still in good condition and you still choose to keep it, see what you can add to improve it.

Will security companies buy my equipment?

No, it is very rare for security companies to buy video surveillance systems that are no longer available on the market because they can no longer guarantee their effectiveness.

It is best to be equipped with the latest security system. If you have moved to an area where an existing system is already installed, you can replace it yourself with a kit of CCTV cameras. If this one is really in good condition, try to give it the characteristics of the most modern video surveillance systems, via the addition of accessories for example. Anyway, if it is more than 10 years old, it is time to change it because it will probably no longer be recognized by your insurer.

How to ensure the security of your home?

A video surveillance system installed by professionals allows you, as an owner, to monitor the comings and goings in your property at any time. Simple and effective, the mere presence of a security camera is enough to deter many burglars. Add a sign warning of this monitoring to have maximum deterrent effectiveness.

To improve the protection offered by these cameras, images can often be transferred to your smartphone so you can keep an eye on your home wherever you are and anytime. If you are still concerned about the periods when your property is left vacant, consider using remote monitoring services. These security specialists monitor your property 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will be immediately alerted in the event of an intrusion.

The guardians

One of the safest ways to protect your home from burglars is to prevent them from targeting your home. Dogs have been used for hundreds of years to scare off unwanted visitors and are still effective. Even if you don't have a dog, putting up a “Beware of the Dog” sign is a good way to discourage burglary attempts.

Landscaping

The landscaping of the gardens on your property can influence the way people, including intruders, move around outside. Consider cutting shrubs and trees next to your house, as this can reduce the visibility and hiding places available to an intruder. You can also plant thorny species around the windows to discourage entry to these places.

Safety on vacation

In the excitement of going for a relaxing break, don't forget to make sure your home security is in working order before you leave. Let a trusted neighbor know that you are gone so they can monitor any suspicious activity. Never write a note to postal workers by leaving it on your door as this amounts to announcing the fact that the house is empty. Ringing unanswered phones is another tell-tale sign that no one is around. So, if possible, turn down the phone volume to minimize the signs of vacancy in your home.

Doors and windows

The best way to assess the security camera systems in Chicago of your home is to look at your property with a burglar's eye, noting weaknesses or potential pathways. Healthy doors and windows are essential for home security, as are locks. If you find any weaknesses, have them fixed as soon as possible