Why Security Companies Should Be Part of Professional Organizations

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Like many other industries, the security and surveillance industry benefits considerably from outside insights.

In the world of commercial security, insights are the difference between an expensive pile of shiny electronic gadgets that delivers nothing more than a false sense of self-assurance to business owners and a results-driven platform that provides meaningful protection to properties and facilities.

Pro-Vigil relies on insights from multiple sources to provide individually tailored, top of the line surveillance and protection for your business.

Insights come from a variety of sources

Thankfully, Pro-Vigil leads the industry in using insight to improve surveillance. We are certainly experts in security hardware specifically, and security industry best practices generally, but that’s not enough.

Because our commercial security products serve a broad range of clients – auto dealerships, cell towers, multi-family housing, power plants, recycling centers and more – we also consider it our jobs to understand the nuances of our clients’ industries. By pairing our innate expertise in security, with a cultivated understanding of our clients’ industries, Pro-Vigil will deliver comprehensive security insights.

Beyond the security industry

Those insights set us apart from our competitors. To date, Pro-Vigil holds active memberships in the following industry associations:

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. (ABC)
National Apartment Association (NAA)
Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA)
National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA)
National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA)
Marine Retailers Association of America (MRAA)
National RV Dealers Association — (RVDA)
National Alliance of Buy Here Pay Here Dealers (BHPH)

Pro-Vigil invests more than a quarter million dollars per year in annual association memberships. Pro-Vigil also supports hundreds of events hosted by these associations. None of our commercial security competitors support and participate in these associations with the same level of enthusiasm.

Active participation helps deepen our insight

We go beyond just paying the fees; our company pays for members to participate in association functions. We donate to the causes and sit on several association boards. Participation in the various industry associations gives Pro-Vigil a deeper understanding of the needs in each industry and consequently, allows us to serve our commercial security customers more effectively.

In 2013, the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) released a study on the security market. The report determined that “Market intelligence is a must-have tool for all security directors planning their departmental and personnel budgets and resource needs, as well as for industry suppliers planning their marketing and product growth.”

Pro-Vigil’s market intelligence ensures that we deliver beyond just the hardware; it’s how we deliver insights.

To learn more about how Pro-Vigil can provide your business the commercial security protection you deserve, contact us for a free quote today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Why Your Business Must Have Camera Security

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]There’s no disputing it— video camera surveillance is critical for businesses today. It protects you and your customers. And in many cases, it prevents crimes from happening in the first place.

If you’re not convinced yet, here are a few statistics and cases made for the necessity of video surveillance.

Video surveillance acts as a deterrent against crime

Most criminals are willing to break the law only when they believe that they’ll be able to escape consequences. When cameras or warning signs are visible, many prospective criminals will go looking for an easier target – one that is lacking video surveillance.

Research shows that security cameras significantly reduce the likelihood of a crime occurrence. In fact, Pro-Vigil deters 97% of instances before they even happen. Even if the sight of video surveillance isn’t enough to deter a would-be thief, visual and audio deterrents such as loud alarms and laser lights work well to ward off potential criminals. These types of deterrents can be triggered by things such as remote security guards.

Surveillance aids in the apprehension of criminals

The assistance of city surveillance cameras during the search for the two men behind the Boston Marathon bombings is a high-profile example of video footage being used to capture criminals, but it is only one example among many.

In a study released by Scotland Yard, video surveillance footage helps solve seven out of ten murders.  From minor traffic collisions to violent crimes, police officers usually begin their investigations by attempting to locate any nearby cameras that might have recorded the event. Even cameras that fail to capture footage of the crime itself can be utilized to locate and track suspicious individuals for further questioning.

Surveillance exonerates innocent individuals

If video surveillance and deterrents aren’t enough to stop a crime from happening, you want to be sure that you’ve got the right person who committed the crime.

Sometimes these things can happen so quickly that the witnesses aren’t sure who was really to blame and without video surveillance that shows what actually happened, police may end up apprehending innocent individuals. Remote video monitoring protects everyone by providing a clear view of events.

The Pro-Vigil Difference

Ready to find a video surveillance system for your company? Pro-Vigil offers high-quality video surveillance systems that protect your business and your customers with the most intelligent live surveillance on the market today.

Choose from features such as virtual security guards and mobile surveillance. Pro-Vigil processes over 1 million events daily deterring crime in as little as 18 seconds. You and your customers deserve to feel the security that comes from knowing that your property is protected—against whatever might come your way. Contact Pro-Vigil online to learn more.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Why Your Business Benefits from Security Monitoring Beyond a Crisis

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Today, deterrence is still the primary objective of video surveillance and real-time video monitoring. The 2011 Urban Institute published an authoritative report that outlines the basic premise of why surveillance is important and useful.

Here’s a quick breakdown.

  1. Would-be criminals perceive a greater risk of being caught if they know they are being watched.
  2. Law-abiding citizens perceive an enhanced sense of safety where surveillance systems exist.
  3. Surveillance systems appear to enhance the efficiency of criminal justice jurisdictions that implement them.
  4. Recorded footage documenting criminal activity may aid investigations and prosecutions, thereby increasing police and prosecutorial efficiency to the benefit of crime victims.

Aside from those advantages, video camera security allows us to monitor a variety of other factors vital to the success of a business, from market behavior and weather to safety and productivity. Read on to see how a security system can benefit your business’ bottom line.

Monitoring Market Behavior

Some of the best market research happens when buyers meet vendors. Business owners, with a little insight, can use video security for market perspective with a handful of well-placed gadgets.

A car dealership, for example, might utilize video surveillance to monitor which cars on the lot are getting the most customer attention, potentially indicating which models have the greatest local appeal. With information like that, the dealership can optimize the arrangement of the cars on the lot, placing the most popular models in the most accessible spots.

Environmental Monitoring

Another benefit of security systems is Increased efficiency in regard to time and resources.

Weather conditions often determine whether construction workers can work. Unfortunately, during seasons when the weather is unpredictable, too much company time and money goes to waste due to employees who are unable to work after showing up. However, with commercial video surveillance in place, crews can check on worksite conditions before heading to the site and reallocate their time and efforts as necessary.

Safety Monitoring

A safety manager’s job is to ensure every employee adheres to federal, state, and local protocols, and with that, there’s a great deal at stake.

Safety managers are periodically tasked with overseeing work being performed across large spaces, such as the roof of a building under construction. Because hiring additional safety managers is not usually feasible, companies can place security cameras in locations to provide a 360-degree view of worksites where dangerous processes are underway. Safety managers can then monitor the work from a remote location and communicate with workers via radio or cell phone.

Productivity Monitoring

Security and surveillance on business property is not necessarily about micromanagement; monitoring employee productivity may lead to insights about how to improve work processes or reveal issues that aren’t being reported.

Video surveillance can benefit companies in a multitude of ways beyond monitoring criminal activity. Fixed security can create a visual link among individuals, allowing the employer to objectively observe areas of improvement.

The fact is, the benefits of security can positively affect a business in an unlimited number of ways.

To find out more about the top of the line security systems or to obtain a free quote, contact Pro-Vigil online.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What You Need to Know about Business Surveillance Licensing

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Utilizing the expertise of a private security agency for business surveillance can provide your company with peace of mind and protection – if you choose the security agency wisely.

One of the first things that you should look for is legal certification and licensure, but why does that matter?

Why Licensure Matters

The security industry is becoming increasingly in demand. In fact, it’s forecast to experience exponential growth, moving from a $36.89 Billion industry to one valued at $68.34 Billion by 2023. But more options for your business surveillance doesn’t necessarily equate to better options.

You need to be able to distinguish the difference between a reputable, sound company and a fly-by-night one. And one of the ways to do so is to find out whether or not it’s legally certified.

To trust someone else with valuable property, you want to be confident that they’re following the rules and regulations set forth by the government.

The government has introduced a system of a clear set, legally ratified conditions to ensure that everyone is being protected and that the right party will be held accountable if something goes wrong. And while these conditions are beneficial, they do make it difficult to become fully licensed as a surveillance provider.

However, security companies who go through this rigorous process are committed to the safety and security of their clients and to the legitimacy of their own company.

The Process to Become Licensed in Business Surveillance

Surveillance providers face a number of obstacles in the licensure process. First, they must designate the kinds of service they’ll offer. They must be very specific about this because the requirements can vary.

For example, a provider offering video monitoring services may have one set of expectations to meet whereas a company focused on alarm services could have a different one. And these requirements could be entirely different than a company focused on another industry niche.

Licensing requirements not only vary by service, but they can also change from one location to the next. For example, two providers offering the same business surveillance services that are located in different states may have completely different sets of licensing requirements and fees because the laws and requirements are established by each state.

Laws can also change from year to year. And licensed security companies are required to do their due diligence and stay compliant with the governing rules in their location. It’s a process that requires commitment. But security companies that make it a priority to maintain their licensure demonstrate a level of commitment that you want in your security provider.

Finding a Licensed Provider

As you begin your search for a business surveillance provider, you are bound to ask questions about the cost and services they provide. Along with these questions, simply ask them for their state license number. They should readily provide this information, and you can even verify it if you are still unsure.

If a company is unwilling to provide this information or offers an excuse as to why they don’t have it, then your better off finding someone else – even if they are the cheapest option.

Pro-Vigil is a trusted source for mobile or fixed business surveillance solutions. We view over 1 million events per day for our customers – and have prevented 97% of all instances before they escalate into a crime. Pro-Vigil is the most reliable live monitoring and surveillance company in the industry. Contact us online to get a free quote. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Outdoor Security Cameras Can Save Your Business

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]The need for outdoor security cannot be denied, especially with the FBI reporting that approximately 8.5 million property crimes occur each year.

Some industries are more vulnerable to crime than others, especially if valuable property and equipment are located out in the open.

Let’s take a closer look at five industries that need outdoor surveillance to protect their businesses.

#1: Car Dealerships

With most car dealerships keeping vehicles outside and an average sale price of $20,000 to $55,000, this situation could be ripe for the picking when it comes to crime. Auto dealer security and outdoor security cameras are a must for car dealerships.

With a surveillance system in place, the authorities can be notified the moment an unauthorized individual sets foot on the property. With visible outdoor security cameras and quicker response times, the risk of robbery and vandalism at dealerships is significantly reduced.

#2: Construction

Construction is another industry that’s highly susceptible to crime because of the amount of valuable equipment left outdoors. The most common types of construction theft include tools, appliances, lumber, and equipment.

Theft can happen at night, or even in broad daylight. However, using outdoor security cameras as part of a construction security plan can help to deter crime, or respond swiftly in the event that it happens.

#3: Real Estate

Whether outdoor cameras are for commercial property, in a developing community, an apartment complex, or vacant rental properties, outdoor surveillance can protect your investment. Not only can real estate security help deter thieves looking to steal from your property or use it as a hideout, you can check on it via mobile connectivity any time, anywhere.

#4: Cell Towers

Cell towers are a target for theft, due to copper wiring and tower batteries being hot commodities. Fortunately, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that metal theft claims have dropped.

This is due in part to an increased awareness and safety techniques that companies are taking to protect these materials. Outdoor security cameras strategically placed at cell towers offer a cost-effective solution to prevent these crimes.

#5: Power Plants

Criminals often target power plants for their copper wiring and electric company generator components.And, because power plants are often located in remote areas, criminals perceive them as an easy steal. This is why power plant surveillance is a must.

Even if a potential incident proceeds, audible and visual deterrents can be triggered, saving you time and money on costly repairs.

The Most Intelligent Live Surveillance

Pro-Vigil offers the most intelligent live surveillance on the market today. With features such as virtual security guards and mobile surveillance, we can help you to closely monitor property and valuables 24/7 regardless of the location or distance.  Pro-Vigil processes over 1 million events daily and has a 97 percent immediate deterrence rate. To learn more about our surveillance and outdoor security cameras, contact Pro-Vigil for a free quote.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Oil Field Security Concerns Are Creating a $1 Billion Loss Per Year

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Oil field theft has become a huge threat to the industry, with an estimated loss of $1 billion per year in the U.S.

A Texas report reveals that businesses in the Permian Basin region are reporting thefts of $200,000-$300,000 per month in tools, pipes, and valves. That doesn’t include the loss of stolen oil products, which the Energy Security Council (ESC) estimates at one to three percent annually.

The need for oil field security has never been stronger, but these losses can be avoided. The right security systems could change the landscape of the oil industry and its risks. Below are the details on why and how.

Oil Field Security Challenges

While much of the equipment used at oil fields is large and difficult to move, smaller tools and gear are easy to steal and tend to have value.

Since locations are so obscure, they are often left out in the open where anyone can access them. In addition, there aren’t any records of the equipment, so even if something goes missing, it would be difficult to pinpoint recovering those items.

In some cases, dishonest employees take advantage of areas that aren’t monitored to steal equipment and tools. Sometimes, more sophisticated crime rings are in play and will smuggle the stolen goods to other countries to avoid being caught.

However, many of these locations lack basic services such as electricity, so setting up oil field surveillance is challenging. The good news is, mobile surveillance can play a big role in solidifying a security system.

Mobile Surveillance Benefits

Mobile oil field surveillance allows companies to check on their property anytime, anywhere. Even if company owners and decision-makers are based in a different location, they can check on their land, equipment, and employees working at the oil field sites.

In addition, you can easily perform routine checks to ensure safety measures are being carried out; regardless of if you are on the property.

Mobile security is a great option for oil fields, and in some cases may be the only real option for land in remote locations because it can be installed even if there is no electricity. And with features like IP health monitoring, which monitors the status of your surveillance equipment, businesses can be confident that their surveillance, no matter how remote, is in good shape.

Pro-Vigil Offers The Most Reliable Oil Rig Security

Pro-Vigil security offers features like a virtual security guard, for the benefit of human surveillance, in even the most remote locations.

Pro-Vigil also offers video surveillance monitoring for peace-of-mind knowing that if an event does happen, hardware sensors will be triggered immediately, and the situation is analyzed, keeping you in the loop the entire time.

In the event that it is a serious threat, Pro-Vigil notifies authorities and initiates deterrents to ward off threats off until the authorities can arrive. Pro-Vigil is the most reliable live monitoring and surveillance company preventing 97% of all instances with over 1,000,000 events per day.

To learn more about oilfield surveillance, contact Pro-Vigil for a free quote and consultation

To stay updated on all the latest security news, alerts, and updates, be sure to subscribe to our security blog with the form on this page.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How HOAs Can Prevent Neighborhood Crime

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Neighborhood safety provides peace-of-mind and security for its residents and has an impact on property value.

Needless to say, keeping neighborhood crime away from your community is extremely important. Here are some neighborhood safety tips that homeowners’ organizations (HOAs) and other types of neighborhood associations can implement.

Organize Your Community

HOAs can organize activities and opportunities for people in the neighborhood to become familiar with one another. Organizing groups, events, and activities is a fast way to share neighborhood safety tips and get more people interested. Some different ways to involve your community include:

Neighborhood Watch Group

Get residents to actively participate in neighborhood safety through a watch group. Educate members of the watch group on your neighborhood safety protocol and encourage them to keep an eye on each other’s properties and communicate any unusual activity.

Set Up a Private Facebook Group

A private Facebook group specifically for your community is a quick and easy way to share neighborhood safety tips as well as other happenings. Neighbors can get to know each other, ask questions, organize community events, and alert one another in case something suspicious is going on. Other social platforms, such as Nextdoor, provide a way to privately communicate with your neighbors in a certain radius.

Create a Calling Tree

If there is an urgent situation that impacts your neighborhood safety, a calling tree can help pass the information along quickly. There are also smartphone apps that work similarly to a calling tree that might work best for some communities.

Organize Community Volunteer Days

Keeping your communal areas such as parks and green well-maintained is key to keeping them free of crime. If it doesn’t look like these areas are kept up or anyone in the community uses them, then criminals might take advantage of the unused space. Aside from hiring a lawn service to do the heavy work, you can organize a regular “Clean-Up Day” where the community is invited out to help. Share the event on your Facebook group, and organize a potluck or social once it’s done.

Keep Your Neighborhood Safe Around the Clock

Two of the best ways to combat crime in your neighborhood are gated security and neighborhood surveillance.  With gated security, you typically need a gate card or code to enter the community. It helps to keep unwanted visitors and random vehicles from driving through your neighborhood. Some gated communities have live security, but a virtual security guard is a highly effective, cost-saving alternative.

A gated community with 24-hour surveillance cameras delivers the most safety and security for your neighborhood. But sometimes gates are not a viable option, especially when there are numerous entry points to the neighborhood. However, strategically placed surveillance cameras can provide 24-hour protection in any type of neighborhood. Surveillance cameras can help to:

  • Reduce vandalism and theft risks
  • Record any security threats
  • Increase property value in the community
  • Provide peace of mind and security for residents

Of the neighborhood safety tips, installing outdoor security cameras provides the most protection for your community. Pro-Vigil is the leader in live surveillance. To learn more about their services or for a free quote, contact Pro-Vigil online.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

5 Must-Have Commercial Security Measures for Businesses

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Commercial security protects your business from break-ins, data theft, and a host of other threats. Whether you are just getting started or want to ensure that your current security plan is solid, here are the must-have security measures you need for your business.

#1: Business Security Cameras and Alarm Systems

With video surveillance and an alarm system in place at your business, you have several lines of defense before someone commits a crime. Some thieves are deterred simply by seeing your commercial security camera system.

Any smart criminal who triggers your alarm system will turn and run in the other direction quickly. And if your system uses remote video monitoring, it will automatically contact the police at the first sign of disturbance. With video surveillance and an alarm system, your business is protected at any stage of the potential crime.

#2: Security Badge System

Savvy thieves may do their homework in advance, visiting your property during operational hours to see if you have a commercial security system in place and identify what valuable items they can easily target. A badge system prevents unauthorized individuals from entering your building and scoping it out.

#3: Data Security

If your website and email are not secure, you could lose valuable data and information at the hands of a cyber-criminal. Creating a site with an SSL certificate should be a part of your commercial security plan. You should also train your employees on how to use their email accounts wisely and not open any suspicious emails or attachments. This is a must-have security measure to prevent cyber-attacks.

#4: Background Checks

There’s plenty of research available on the risk of employee theft. 75% of all employees have stolen from the company they worked for at least once – the odds are not in your favor! To avoid potential issues and provide a safe work environment, it’s important to do a background check on your employees as part of your commercial security plan. This allows you to better evaluate who you hire and minimize risks.

#5: Security Guards

A security guard is a must-have for businesses with highly valuable property. In commercial security, there are several options here.

  1. You can hire a live guard to walk the premises and keep an eye on your valuables.
  2. You can also hire remote virtual guards. While a virtual guard is not physically onsite, they are a live person who is monitoring your property from all angles.

In many cases, having a virtual guard is actually more effective because they can see the entire building at once. Being in a supervised remote location with other guards can give you peace-of-mind knowing that 24 hours a day, your property is being watched.

Need help with your security plan? Pro-Vigil offers the fastest commercial security surveillance on the market today and deters crime in as little as 18 seconds.

For a free quote or consultation, contact us here to talk about your commercial security.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Cannabis Security Solutions: 10 Tips to Protect Your Dispensary

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Security is a challenge with the Cannabis industry. Both dispensaries and growth facilities are a cash-heavy and relatively new business with different regulations in different states. There’s the threat of crime from savvy criminals who know you deal in cash and even your own employees. Finding the right cannabis security solutions is crucial, so here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Understand Your Local Requirements.

Each state has its own set of laws for cannabis dispensaries and growth facilities. And in some cases, local governments within the state have different laws; for example, minimum camera resolution, length of time recordings are saved, on-site security guards, and detailed diagrams of the surveillance system. Your surveillance system must be secure – and compliant.

In addition, most states require multiple cameras to ensure every section in the facility is properly monitored. However, there are cameras that can monitor larger areas, like 360 cameras, which means you may not have to install more than 1 camera per area. Since fewer cameras are needed, less wire is needed, and less units need to be installed. This can vastly lower your expenses.

2. Choose A Cannabis Security Solution That Is Scalable And Flexible.

As your business grows, your needs may change. Expanding facilities, more employees, a change in government regulations – all of these things can impact your security. To ensure that you have the best security solution at all times, find one that is adaptable to your changing needs.

3. Look Beyond The Government Regulations.

Meeting government regulations shouldn’t be your only guide when choosing cannabis security solutions. Some states are new to the market and might be less restrictive on security than others. And even those with tight restrictions are more focused on your product than your cash. Use regulations as a guideline, but keep in mind that your dispensary may need more than the minimum requirements.

4. Recognize That Criminals Want The Highest Return.

Protecting the cannabis plants is important, but savvy criminals are much more interested in what’s in your dry storage. If they are going to break in, they want the most value for the risk.

5. Protect Against Inside Jobs.

In the cannabis industry, the majority of crimes are inside jobs. Yet, many businesses spend more effort protecting against break-ins. The best cannabis security solution mitigates risk equally well from inside and outside jobs.

6. Keep Your Surveillance System Visible.

Ideally, your surveillance system serves to prevent crime from even happening. One of the best deterrents for would-be criminals, and especially those who work for you, is a robust surveillance system. Make sure everyone knows and can see that you mean business when it comes to security.

7. Early Detection And Real-Time Warnings Are Critical.

The presence of security will ward off many criminals, but if it doesn’t, then your system should have measures in place to catch it – and notify you or a manager immediately. Security features like video surveillance monitoring can quickly identify a threat, activate alarms, and send out warnings immediately.

8. Identify Potential Blind Spots In Your Cannabis Security Solutions.

When it’s time to install your surveillance system, be sure that the security contractor knows where your bulky items, equipment, and other potential obstructions are. Your cameras should be placed to maximize the viewing area. If they are blocked by an obstruction, they are ineffective and non-compliant.

9. Store A Backup Of Video Recordings Off-Site.

Video surveillance systems can store data onsite in DVRs, offsite at remote locations, or both. The risk of storing surveillance footage only at your dispensary is that it could be tampered with.  Smart criminals, especially those on the inside, can figure out where the DVRs are – and destroy the evidence before you get to it. IP camera hosting is a feature that allows you to monitor your security from anywhere.

10. Find A Company Focused On Working With The Cannabis Industry.

Because this industry is still in its early stages, not all security companies are familiar or have experience working with cannabis dispensaries. The dynamics are unique, and the regulations are ever-changing. Choose a security business that recognizes this and knows the industry. Pro-Vigil offers full-service cannabis security solutions. Contact Pro-Vigil to learn more.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Five Setup Tips to Get the Most out of Remote Surveillance Systems

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″ shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_link_target=”_self” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” bg_image_animation=”none”][social_buttons facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][vc_column_text]Remote surveillance systems are the most effective way to secure your property and possessions around the clock. You can check your remote video monitoring service from anywhere at any time. Surveillance systems can come with virtual security guards, alarms and deterrents, and video analytics to protect your place of business. But to make the most out of these remote surveillance systems, it’s important to understand how to set up and use them. Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Take The Lighting Into Account.

When you install a surveillance system, try to position the cameras in well-lit areas. The light source should be either behind the camera or out of the frame to reduce glare. Also, keep in mind that shadows may appear darker on camera, but you can increase the lighting to cut down on shadows. Now, in some cases, good lighting may not be an option. With the latest advancements in camera technology, lack of proper lighting is no longer enough to prevent videos from capturing usable footage. That having been said, even the best night vision will never live up to the clarity you get from video footage captured in a well-lit location.

2. Consider The Position Of The Cameras.

When setting up a video surveillance system, camera placement is critical. If you are working with a reputable company, your installer should be knowledgeable about placement. But even so, it is important to know this information as well to make sure that you are getting the most out of your surveillance. Ideally, video surveillance systems should cover as much of the property as possible and use multiple cameras so that their coverage can overlap. This overlap effectively eliminates ‘dark zones’ that criminals might take advantage of and ensures that you’ve got eyes over all of your property.

3. Limit Accessibility Of Remote Surveillance Systems.

Crime can happen from both external and internal sources. If your video surveillance system is easy to access, thieves and even dishonest employees could have the opportunity to damage the cameras and any video recordings of a crime. If your surveillance system is a modern, IP-based system, then the video footage is automatically sent to the cloud and you’ll have it regardless of any attempts to destroy it. However, even if the criminals can’t stop the footage from going offsite, they may damage your expensive equipment while trying to destroy the evidence.

4. Install Cameras Out Of The Way Of Traffic.

When you install the cameras of your surveillance system, be sure that they are out of the way of traffic. This could be guests, customers, or even employees. Video surveillance systems are designed to protect your valuable assets, but they shouldn’t disrupt the natural flow of your business. The video surveillance company installing your cameras may need your input on this since you know your company best, so be prepared to identify your high traffic spots and try to work around them.

5. Become Familiar With Your Video Surveillance System.

New technology is sometimes intimidating. All of the options and features sound great, but when it comes to using them, many people don’t take the time to learn all their capabilities. And ultimately, they are unable to take full advantage of them. So get to know your system, figure out how to optimize its performance. Today’s remote surveillance systems often offer additional features such as video analytics that could give you valuable information about not only security but also your customers. So be sure to talk with your security system provider about the different features you can utilize.

If you are interested in a new remote surveillance system or have questions about them, reach out to Pro-Vigil for a free quote and consultation. Pro-Vigil offers the most intelligent live surveillance on the market today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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