Choosing the ideal security camera for your business depends on numerous factors, including your security needs, the number of cameras needed, and more.
Robberies and break-ins have increased in the past few years, leading many business and property owners to improve their building security. But what procedures can you implement to ensure the safety and security of your facility? Follow this guide to learn more about improving facility security to keep your employees and property safe.
Why Is Building Security Important?
Building security is paramount for businesses and residents, serving as a critical safeguard against many threats.
In commercial settings, protecting employees, valuable assets, and sensitive information is the highest priority. Robust security measures deter criminal activities such as theft and vandalism, instilling a sense of safety and fostering a conducive environment for business operations. Additionally, compliance with industry regulations and standards often requires stringent security protocols.
On the residential front, security measures ensure the safety of individuals and their personal belongings. They provide a sense of peace and privacy, contributing to the overall well-being of residents.
In both cases, effective building security measures contribute to community safety. Investing in building security is an investment in protecting people, assets, and the overall stability of communities.
How to Improve Your Building Security
With commercial robbery increasing over the last few years, building security is more important than ever. As criminals adapt to new building security technology, you might feel like there’s no security system that can keep them out—but that’s not true.
Several advanced security systems can improve your building‘s safety and keep trespassers out, including:
Video Surveillance
Video surveillance is one of the most effective ways to enhance your building security system. Outdoor cameras deter crime by nearly 50%, and they’re customizable to your building.
Innovative features include:
- Indoor and outdoor cameras
- Live monitoring
- Snapshot imaging
- Video reporting
- CCTV integration
CCTV
CCTV, or closed-circuit television, is a versatile type of commercial video surveillance. This system consists of strategically placed cameras that monitor your building around the clock.
Some CCTV systems have motion detectors that record when someone is in the frame. They offer real-time viewing of your facility and enhance your safety and security. Many building owners and facility managers prefer CCTV monitoring over other commercial surveillance systems since it provides real-time video you can use as evidence.
Looking for superior commercial surveillance solutions?
Monitored surveillance is one of the most effective commercial security systems, as it deters criminals from attempting to trespass in the first place. Discover how commercial surveillance systems from Paramount Companies can bolster your building security.
Building Access Control Systems
Building access control systems (BAC) are advanced building security systems that grant limited access to people based on their roles or capabilities. Many BAC systems function with access cards, fingerprints, or security codes.
If you don’t have an access card or don’t know the code, you cannot access the building, making break-ins more difficult. BAC is customized based on your facility’s scale and needs, and there are several options available:
- Discretionary Access Control: DAC is the least restrictive type of BAC system. A small number of individuals, like executives or your HR staff, control the system. This group of people grants and restricts access to different areas of your building.
- Mandatory Access Control: One person controls MAC, like a Chief Security Officer or HR president. This designated individual grants and limits access to the entire building, tightening your security since only one person can change the restrictions.
- Role-Based Access Control: RAC is the only automated BAC system. Instead of manually letting people inside, an employee’s role determines their access level. Entry-level employees can access their building and floor, while higher-level executives can access all floors, rooms, and facilities.
Security Systems
BAC systems aren’t the only type of advanced building security solution. Graphical user interface (GUI) maps display lighted access control points. These maps tell administrators who is in what part of the building and come with several custom capabilities, like snapshot imaging, live monitoring, and more.
Additionally, live report screens connect with your CCTV system. They have the same capabilities as a GUI map, but you can integrate them with your current surveillance system.
Commercial Door Security Hardware
High-quality commercial door security hardware significantly enhances a building’s security. These security doors include robust features such as:
- Commercial locks
- Access control systems
- Keypads and keycards
- Biometric scanners
- Camera and facial recognition
- Intercom systems
- Reinforced door frames
These features thwart unauthorized access attempts. Commercial door hardware safeguards valuable assets and sensitive information, fostering a sense of safety for occupants. Advanced hardware fortifies entry points against threats, providing peace of mind for both owners and occupants.
Building Security Best Practices
Follow these building security best practices to keep your business safe and secure:
- Don’t share access cards: To enhance building security, it is crucial not to share access cards. This way, you maintain control over entry points and limit access to authorized personnel only.
- Inform employees of your security procedures: Informing employees about security procedures is imperative so they are well-acquainted with protocols and can actively contribute to a secure environment.
- Don’t let strangers in with your access card or fingerprint: Don’t compromise security by allowing strangers entry with your access card or fingerprint. It’s essential to preserve the integrity of your access control systems.
- Regularly check your cameras: Regularly checking surveillance cameras is a fundamental practice that allows you to promptly identify and respond to security threats.
- Always set alarm systems: An essential building security best practice is always setting alarm systems. This is a reliable deterrent and provides an immediate alert in the event of unauthorized access or suspicious activities.
- Consistently update your security system: Consistently updating the security system is essential to address evolving threats and vulnerabilities.
By keeping up with these best practices, you can strengthen both commercial and residential security measures to protect employees and guests. If you’re looking for a reliable professional to minimize security risks, turn to Paramount Companies.
Enhance Your Building Security With Paramount Companies
Paramount Companies installs and maintains high-quality building security systems for businesses in the St. Louis area. Our commercial security solutions protect your building from theft, vandalism, and other crimes.
Let us improve your facility security with our advanced solutions, including BAC systems and surveillance cameras. Contact us today to find the building security solution that works for your business.
On average, there are 1.1 million home burglaries per year—and over 75% of homes don’t have home security systems in place.
How To Secure Your Home Properly
There are several home security systems available. Choosing the right one depends on your location and type of residence.
Apartment Security Systems
Securing your apartment is difficult because you don’t want to invest in an expensive home security system if you plan on moving again. However, security systems are essential to your protection, since renters are more likely to experience break-ins than homeowners.
So, what are your options?
Security Cameras
Security cameras are an effective and inexpensive way to protect your apartment. Many cameras are controlled by mobile apps, so you can check in on your apartment whenever you want.
Cameras are also customizable and scalable. You can have several around your apartment or just one outside your door—it’s entirely up to you! If you’re looking for budget-friendly cameras, several security companies offer affordable options.
Security cameras are also helpful in the event of a break-in because they provide the necessary evidence.
Smart Locks and Keypad Locks
Smart locks are locks you can control from your mobile device. They lock and unlock with a passcode, so only people who know the code can unlock your door.
One downside of smart locks is that burglars can pick them if you connect them to unsecured Wi-Fi, so make sure you take the proper cybersecurity measures when installing a smart lock.
If smart locks aren’t the right fit for you, automatic locks and keypad locks are great alternatives that are easy to install. Burglars can’t pick keypad locks because they don’t have a keyhole, providing an extra layer of security. Keypad locks are typically automatic, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to lock your door—it’s already done for you!
Advanced Security Systems
Burglars are 300 times more likely to break into homes without security systems. Because suburban homes are in low-traffic areas, there are fewer witnesses to break-ins, so an advanced security system is necessary. Your options include:
Outdoor Cameras and Doorbell Cameras
Having outdoor and doorbell cameras protects your house from break-ins. Studies show that outdoor cameras reduce the likelihood of a burglary by nearly 50%.
You might think that hiding your cameras makes them more effective, but having visible cameras is more likely to drive away intruders.
When you’re looking for quality cameras, consider:
- Durability: Can your camera withstand harsh weather conditions?
- Light sensors: Do you want cameras with motion-activated lights?
- Night vision: Are your cameras able to pick up video when it’s dark?
- Price: What is your price range?
Whether your budget is $50 or $2,000, there are plenty of quality security cameras available for you. Remember: it’s better to have a couple of inexpensive cameras than none at all!
Need help finding the right home security system?
Need help finding the right home security system?
Smart Home Devices
Smart home devices are advanced security systems powered with Wi-Fi, and they’re entirely customizable. You can add the following to most home automation systems:
- Remote control devices
- Motion detectors
- Doorbell cameras
- Automatic door and window locks
- Light adjustment features
These devices simplify home security. You can control them using your phone or a mobile application. If you’re in bed and realize you forgot to lock your doors, you can do so from your mobile device.
Plus, in the event of a robbery or intruder, you can use your smart home device to alert authorities discreetly. This versatile tool is an excellent way to protect your home and your family.
Where Can I Get Help Securing My Home?
If you’re not sure where to start with your home security system, Paramount Companies can help. With over 15 years of experience as a leading residential security company, we promise to provide the best security available.
We offer surveillance services, home access control, and security cameras for homes and apartments of any size. We’ve got you covered, whether you need basic CCTV cameras or an advanced security system.
Contact our security experts today to improve the safety of your home.
Is your business protected from intruders? Do you have security system solutions in place to prevent crime? If you don’t, your business is vulnerable to outside threats.
Security System Solutions Explained
Security system solutions protect your home or business internally and externally. Security companies design these solutions to keep you, your staff, and your assets safe. All businesses regardless of size need to protect their employees, especially when their offices are downtown or in a large city.
Security system solutions include:
- Motion detectors
- Door security systems
- Access control
- Cameras and surveillance systems
Types of Security Systems
Different security options are available for residences and businesses, including:
Home Security Alarms
Home security alarms alert you to attempted break ins. Many smart home devices notify authorities automatically when your alarm goes off and no one disarms it within a certain amount of time.
Video doorbells are a common home security measure because they monitor movement in front of doors or windows and notify homeowners when any movement occurs in front of the camera.
Nearly 60% of burglars said they would leave their targeted house if they found an alarm or camera, proving that video doorbells are an adequate security measure.
A DIY system of video cameras and motion sensors around your home is a good security solution—but it might not be enough for people living in inner cities. A professionally installed system for your home greatly increases your security.
Professional security systems include:
- Access control
- Higher-quality surveillance cameras
- Live monitored activity report screens
- Connection to monitoring centers
- CCTV
- Graphical user interface (GUI) maps
- Monitoring services
- Glass break sensors
Commercial Security System Solutions
Protecting your company buildings and ensuring your employees’ safety are essential to running a successful business.
One standard security measure for small and large companies alike is commercial security cameras. With cameras surrounding your business, you can monitor all outdoor activity and record motion easily.
Cameras are also helpful in the event of intrusion because you’ll have footage of the intruder that you can use as proof if legal issues arise.
A central control system also protects your business, controlling all security systems from one device. Having separate control panels for each camera or motion sensor is complicated. Central control panels streamline the management of all your equipment so you can easily monitor activity.
Build a barrier against intruders and protect your employees today.
Small Business Access Control and Cameras
Small businesses are more vulnerable to crime because they typically don’t use the same advanced security solutions that larger businesses do. Many small businesses don’t have the budget for better measures.
Small stores and boutiques suffer from high theft rates because they don’t have cameras—and customers know that. Security providers can install certain cameras for lower prices to help you prevent theft.
Small business access control is another inexpensive security system solution. If you want to protect your small business’s cash and supplies from employees and customers alike, your access control system can do just that.
How many people need access to your safe, inventory, or cash drawer? Professional security providers can install keypads, fingerprint readers, and locks so a limited number of people have access to your money and your stock. Access control is an excellent way to protect your store from the threats many small businesses face.
Choosing an Alarm System for Your Business
If you don’t know where to start with security system solutions, Paramount Companies is here to help. We take pride in providing advanced security that fits your budget. Our services include:
- CCTV and access control systems
- GUI maps with lighted access control point displays
- Live activity report screen
- Visitor management
- Vehicle and pedestrian access control
- Entry and exit access control
- Video surveillance
Paramount protects both commercial and residential properties. With over 15 years of experience in the security industry, we promise to deliver the best security solutions for your home or business.
Connect with a Paramount expert today to find the security solutions that suit your needs and budget.
