Protecting Your Business with a DIY Security Camera System
Guarding against theft and vandalism can pay dividends.
Guarding against theft and vandalism can pay dividends.
Setting up security cameras at your business can deter or identify robbers, burglars, and vandals, each of which can cause serious damage to your operation. It’s a smart idea to take the necessary steps to safeguard your building, customers, employees, and yourself with this layer of protection.
A camera system can keep criminals from marking your business as an easy target. They know that any crime committed will likely be recorded and handed over to authorities. This deterrent effect may result in major savings and fewer headaches for you. The question isn’t if you need a security camera system, but what type works best for the needs of your business.
At the most basic level, you’ll be looking to choose between wired versus wireless and indoor versus outdoor cameras.
Wireless security camera systems for businesses are convenient because they run off of long-lasting batteries or solar power. They need a fast, reliable, and unimpeded internet connection and/or LTE capabilities to store video or audio in the cloud or on a base station. Although they can be more expensive upfront, wireless cameras work well for DIY security systems since they’re easy to install. They usually connect to an app which allows you to check in on your business from anywhere.
Wired cameras require basic electrical work to connect to power. Your small business may already have the wiring infrastructure to support this type of security system, but if not, you’ll need to have proper wiring installed. While it will increase costs, small businesses tend to hire professionals to set up wired security cameras to ensure safety and proper installation.
Depending on your location, you may want to use a combination of indoor and outdoor cameras for better coverage. While they perform the same functions, indoor cameras are meant to record events within interior areas while good outdoor cameras have night vision or a light and are designed to withstand inclement weather.
Video quality is essential. A 4K or 1080p camera will provide high-resolution video and images for a sharper view of people or vehicles. You may be able to zoom in on a license plate number or see distinguishing features on someone’s face.
If you opt for both indoor and outdoor cameras, make sure the devices you set up outside are weather-resistant and have good night vision or a floodlight.
You will also want to consider the following factors:
Cameras with Wi-Fi or LTE capabilities often come with apps for easy manageability, ensuring you have complete control of your system from your smart phone or tablet.
Considering these factors will help you set up a small business camera system that’s easy to use, offers protection, video storage, and peace of mind.
Where you place your security cameras can determine how effective they are in protecting your business. You should cover all important locations with little to no overlap in order to protect all hidden areas.
Consider the areas you want covered based on your business operations. Common places under surveillance include points of sale, points of entry, loading docks, and places where cash or valuables are held.
A doorbell camera can be especially useful for a business, allowing you to see exactly who is coming into your establishment. This may not be important unless something were to occur, but if it does, identifying a suspected perpetrator should be easier. A doorbell camera can be placed at your front door, your backdoor, and your office door.
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An indoor camera may deter theft or help identify the perpetrators of a crime. Useful for behind the cash register or other points of sale, indoor cameras are essential for protecting your business. Make sure it’s strategically placed to point where a customer would stand so you have the best chance of identifying key features in the event that a problem arises.
Your outdoor cameras should be placed so you can see who’s coming towards your business or parking in your lot. These cameras are also good for ensuring that deliveries are safe and secure, and monitoring afterhours activity on your premises. Positioning cameras to monitor back entrances, loading docks, or dumpster locations may help deter thieves. High-end cameras often have night vision, and some are equipped with a floodlight for an added sense of security.
Whether placing your cameras indoors, outdoors, or both, a wide-angle camera can help you cover more space with fewer devices.
Additionally, if you are using wireless cameras, make sure your Wi-Fi or LTE signal is strong enough to reach your cameras for uninterrupted monitoring to keep you and your business safe.
Although you have a right to secure and monitor your small business, keep in mind that customers, passersby, and other nearby businesses have a reasonable right to privacy.
You shouldn’t angle your camera in a way that peers into another business establishment, nor should you place your security cameras in locations that might infringe on someone’s personal privacy, like a bathroom or a changing room.
Equipped with these helpful tips and the security cameras, you can keep your operations better protected.
