Is A Virtual Security Guard The Right Choice For 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]It’s time to step up the security at your business and you want to know what surveillance features will give you the most benefit for your money. If a virtual security guard is on your radar, then read on. Today, we’re talking about how a virtual guard can save you time and money while protecting your business.

Virtual Security Guards Are Highly Trained

Unlike live security guards, virtual guards watch your facility from a distant location. They are trained to handle threats using advanced technology and virtual security surveillance systems. Although they are not at the physical location, remote guards are able to scan the entire premises for threats and immediately deter crime 97% of the time, notifying law enforcement the remaining 3% of the time.

Virtual Security Guards Are Proactive

Because virtual guards can deter most crimes, they are a proactive approach to security. When a potential threat is detected, they have immediate access to deterrents such as alarms, strobe lights, and other tools to startle would-be criminals. They can quickly activate these deterrents to protect your business. Not only does this scare away thieves, it saves you the time and trouble of filing a police report.

Using A Virtual Security Guard Saves Money

Remote security guards are less expensive than hiring a live person to patrol your facility. And because they are in an off-site location with other security guards, the risk of them falling asleep or slacking off on the job is reduced. You can have peace of mind knowing that the money you’ve invested in security is providing your business with the protection it needs.

Remote Security Is Comprehensive

Are there blind spots and vulnerable areas at your place of business? These could be missed by live guards and other types of security. A virtual security guard provides comprehensive coverage because your remote guard has access to surveillance video and sophisticated security features that allow them to identify all threats throughout your location at the same time – and quickly put a stop to them.

Virtual Surveillance Could Mean Less Stress

A remote guard may be the best option if you want live monitoring, but don’t have time to train and manage an on-site security guard. With an on-site guard, first, you must find the right one to hire. And you’ll also need to train them. You need someone you can trust – who won’t sleep on the job. Otherwise, you may find yourself losing sleep. Virtual security guards work in an off-site facility along with other guards. So you can have peace of mind knowing they are doing their job.

Reduce Liability Issues

Another benefit to off-site monitoring is that you eliminate the risk of injury to your security guards. If a guard is injured on your premises, there is always the possibility that you will be held liable. Even if you believe you’ve taken every safety measure possible to protect your staff, you never know what reason a personal injury lawyer may come up with to hold you accountable for the injury. And you have no control over the opinions of a judge or jury. Using remote security can help eliminate this risk.

Pro-Vigil’s Virtual Security Surveillance System

Pro-Vigil is a leader in virtual security surveillance systems. A virtual security guard from Pro-Vigil provides the benefit of human surveillance without the challenges of an in-person guard. With high-tech tools and advanced surveillance training, a Pro-Vigil virtual guard can monitor and respond to any situation – at a much lower cost. Contact us today to learn more about our virtual security surveillance system.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

7 Common Self-Storage Security Challenges – And How To Solve Them

[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 self-storage industry is competitive. With an estimated nine percent of U.S. households renting storage, you want your company to get its share of the business. Unfortunately, criminals like self-storage units too. Let’s look at the most common self-storage security challenges and some ways you can solve them.

#1: Low-Quality Footage

At one point, you spent good money on your analog CCTV system. But that was years ago – and technology has changed. The grainy footage captured by analog cameras makes it hard to identify any details of a crime. And if a thief gets away with it once, who’s to stop him from coming back?

Solution:Upgrade to an HD digital video surveillance system. If thieves do hit your business, you have footage to help law enforcement identify and apprehend them quickly.

#2: Unsecured Surveillance Video Data

Video recordings are stored on-site, which is unsecured. They can be tampered with, stolen, or lost. You don’t always know when you’ll have to pull footage from the past, so you need to protect it.

Solution: Modern self-storage security systems record and store data on the cloud. It’s safe, secure, and you can access it from anywhere.

#3: Neglected Surveillance System Health

The video surveillance system you have is aging, and eventually, it may fail. Especially if it isn’t regularly maintained. If it stops functioning, you may not even notice – until there’s an incident and you need the footage. Unfortunately at this point its too late.

Solution: Switch to a newer digital self-storage security system that includes IP health monitoring. With this feature, you’ll receive a warning instantly if your system goes offline.

#4: Reactionary Focus

Your surveillance system doesn’t deter crime, it only shows you footage of what happened. Some systems capture the details, but they don’t monitor for suspicious activity.

Solution: Consider remote video monitoringsurveillance that comes with features like recognition software and dedicated virtual guardswhich respond quickly to potential threats.

#5: Lack Of Deterrents

Crime happens fast – and is often over before the cops arrive. If you don’t have any deterrents in place, again your stuck solving the crime, not preventing it.

Solution: Switch to a self-storage security system that includes deterrent options like strobe lights, sirens, and pre-recorded messages to scare intruders away. These deterrents are triggered when the surveillance system identifies a potential threat.

#6: Inability To Identify A License Plate

The thief entered your facility in a vehicle; however, you can’t make out the license plate number. Low-quality surveillance systems and even some HD ones have difficulty reading all of the numbers and letters on a license plate.

Solution:Choose a self-storage security system that uses license plate recognition software. This eliminates the guesswork and helps law enforcement track down the criminal.

#7: No Backup Power Supply

Weather, unexpected blackouts or another situation can cause your power to fail. And because your surveillance system is tied directly to your power grid, it goes down too and compromises your facility.

Solution: Get a system that comes with a backup power supply so that it keeps working even if everything else is down. Today, there are advanced systems that use built-in solar cells connected to rechargeable batteries.

Choose A Self-Storage Security System That Protects Your Customer’s Valuables

Remember, you aren’t just storing stuff for your customers, you’re protecting it for them. Stand out from the competition by providing your customers with the peace of mind that their property is safe. Consider an advanced security system that includes features like high-quality real-time video monitoring, secured data storage, and measures to prevent crime from happening in the first place at your facility.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What To Look For In A Wireless Surveillance System

[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]You’ve done the research and concluded that a wireless surveillance system is the right fit for your business. It’s easy to install, easy to use, and most importantly, it will keep your business protected from crime and vandalism. Now it’s time to decide which surveillance system to choose.

You have a lot of options, but not all of them are necessarily good ones for your business. So before you decide, here are some questions to ask when looking for a wireless surveillance system.

Are The Security Cameras IP Or Analog?

Surveillance systems come in both options, however, IP cameras generally offer better features than analog. They have wider fields of view, higher quality images, and advanced zooming capability. You can manage your IP cameras remotely and they require little maintenance. Analog cameras are more complicated and require more frequent maintenance. Plus, they lack the high-quality picture that you can get from an IP camera.

What’s The Megapixel Count Of The Security Cameras?

Megapixel count matters in security cameras. If there’s a theft or crime at your business, and the intruders getaway, you want to be able to identify them. And a higher megapixel count means a better picture. In general, higher resolution video surveillance systems are more expensive and they take up more space. So, when you choose a system, keep the megapixel count in mind, but your budget and size of the business will also play a role.

Does The Wireless Surveillance System Include Night Vision Features?

Since most theft and vandalism happens in the dark, you’ll want to know details about the security surveillance system’s night vision features. Consider your lighting too. Does the area around your business have good lighting, or can you add lighting to it? If not, then a higher resolution system with night vision features may important to the security of your facility.

What Kinds Of On-Site Deterrents Are Included?

A highly effective wireless security surveillance system should include deterrents that startle the would-be criminals and even scare them away. Deterrents like alarms, strobe lights, and recorded messages can prevent around 93% of incidents. When someone approaches the property and is a potential threat, these deterrents are triggered immediately in some wireless surveillance systems using advanced recognition software.

Will The Cameras Withstand Different Kinds Of Weather?

For systems that use outdoor cameras, you’ll want to make sure that the cameras can handle the weather in your area. Does it get really hot in the summer, or do you experience freezing temperatures in the winter? Cameras will have a two-digit IP (Ingress Protection) rating that will indicate how well the camera will hold up under different conditions. Make sure that the system you purchase can withstand the elements you experience including rain, humidity, and extreme temperatures.

How Do Its Technical Features Compare To Other Wireless Systems?

Depending on your needs and budget, there are other wireless surveillance system features that could be useful. These include video analytics, cloud computing access, compatibility with video recorders, and storage capacity. The technical features you choose should depend on factors such as the value of your inventory or the size of your office space.

Choosing The Right Wireless Surveillance System

Yes, even after you’ve narrowed the field from wired to wireless, there are still many choices to make. However, when you’re clear on your budget and the kind of surveillance your business needs, it’s much easier to choose a wireless system.

Once you’ve found the right system for your business, feel free to contact us with any questions or for a free quote.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

5 Advantages To Cutting The Cord (Wireless Security Camera Systems For 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]There will always be criminals who would rather take what they can from others, instead of trying to build anything themselves. According to the FBI’s Crime in the United States crime report, Americans suffered approximately $15.3 billion in losses from property crimes (excluding arson) in 2017.

Now, think about your business. If a criminal were to target your property, would your existing surveillance measures be enough to keep them from turning your American dream into a nightmare? Well, if you’re relying on outdated, hardwired surveillance systems, then the answer is most likely no. Why? Because new systems that use wireless technology have a number of benefits over older designs that are still anchored to the outlet. Take a moment and familiarize yourself with these five key advantages of investing in a Commercial Wireless Security Camera System.

1. You Can’t Cut Wires That Aren’t There

What does it take to break into an establishment with a fully wired surveillance system? Often nothing more than a pair of wire cutters. By disrupting perimeter telephone and power cables, criminals effectively blind even the most advanced wired surveillance cameras. On the other hand, wireless surveillance, as the name suggests, has no wires to attack. Many wireless systems are likewise designed to be able to function for extended periods of time on their own power-sources. The end result is that criminals are going to find themselves enjoying a free ride in the back of a police cruiser, no matter how many wire cutters they bring along.

2. These Systems Can Be Placed Anywhere

When it comes to restricting surveillance locations, there really isn’t much difference between a wire and a tether. Wires force businesses to place their cameras in spots where cables and other equipment can reach—whether or not those spots are the optimal locations for surveillance devices. With wireless cameras, the only restriction you face regarding camera placement is your own imagination.

3. Secure Recorded Footage

If your wired surveillance system records its footage to an onsite backup, then there’s not much stopping criminals from robbing your establishment, and then simply taking or damaging the recordings for good measure. Wireless surveillance that saves data directly to the cloud is completely safe from those who might want to see it disappear. This means that no matter what a criminal might do, you’ll always have a way of accessing the surveillance footage. As for the digital data itself, wireless surveillance systems employ top-rate encryption techniques, making your video feed safe from cyber-criminals, as well as conventional ones.

4. Easily Accessible From Anywhere

Speaking of accessibility, wireless surveillance systems give you the ability to check your camera feeds at anytime, from anywhere in the world. Want to take a vacation, but don’t want to leave your business undefended? Just take along your mobile smart device, and you’ll never have to worry about not knowing exactly what’s happening back on the home-front.

5. They Are Cost Effective

It’s amazing how many businesses install surveillance systems in an effort to deter criminals, but end up getting ‘robbed’ by the cost of installation. Installing a wired surveillance system can be a massive undertaking, and may even result in damage to your property (those wires, cables, and security components have to go somewhere). With wireless surveillance, you won’t have to shell out good money just so some technician can put a bunch of holes in your walls. Instead, your money goes where it’s supposed to: towards the equipment and the service. That means less money spent on the system, more money for the system to protect.

So cut the cord, and let Pro-Vigil keep you safe. After all, if you don’t protect your big break, then you’ll just be setting some criminal up to enjoy theirs[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Construction Site Security: 7 Ways to Protect Your Jobsite

[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]According to the National Equipment Register ’s (NER) “Equipment Theft Report,” the value of equipment stolen annually in the United States ranges from $300 million to $1 billion! The same report indicates that less than 25% of stolen equipment is recovered. Vehicles and equipment aren’t the only targets on construction sites for thieves.

Reports indicate that copper theft—specifically the theft of copper electrical components, such as wires—costs the United States roughly $1 billion per year as well, and has the potential to cause significant damage to the nation’s vital electrical and communication infrastructure.

The theft of equipment and electrical components is of special concern to those who own and operate construction sites. Thieves tend to see construction sites as easy targets when compared with more conventional robbery targets. After all, most building sites are located in open areas, without the benefit of the natural security of enclosing walls and a roof.

Likewise, many construction sites are located in remote locations, far from regular police patrol routes. These factors, coupled with the fact that building sites often contain very valuable supplies (copper wire can often be sold for approximately $3 per pound) that are easy to fence and difficult to track (construction equipment uses no standardized serial number system) make for a crime that provides minimal risk, for maximum potential reward.

This is where construction site security comes into play. By investing in the right defenses, construction site managers can drastically decrease the likelihood of falling prey to the theft and vandalism that seem to plague the industry. To help you get started on the right foot, we’d like to discuss seven construction site security options you should be considering.

1. Fences & Locks

It may seem obvious, but many construction sites fail to take the most basic precautions against intrusion. Fences that surround a construction site are relatively inexpensive and offer a clear indication to any outsiders that the area within is strictly off limits. Are fences impenetrable?

No, of course, they aren’t. They can be climbed and they can be cut, but they at least offer an additional obstacle for any thief who might be considering preying upon your property, and sometimes that’s enough. Ideally, you should also have fences and locks internally around important tools, equipment, and supplies, as a second line of defense..

For onsite construction offices, basic locks may be enough to prevent the theft of important data and office equipment, but choosing to invest in electronic locking mechanisms that take advantage of keycard or code locks can increase your overall security significantly.

2. Posted Notices

Now, most intruders who find themselves on your property aren’t there by accident. As such, you may be wondering if something as mundane as a posted notices and signs could really be all that effective.

But while they may not do much to actively keep criminals out, they do give intruders an idea of what sort of punishment that they might be facing should they decide to attempt to break in.

Signs that clearly convey that an area is restricted to anyone without authorization and that then explain the possible penalties for entering the area, let criminals know exactly what to expect, which will cause many to change their minds.

3. Proper Identification And Record Keeping

One of the main issues that makes equipment theft so lucrative is that few equipment owners bother to take the necessary precautions against having their equipment stolen. Title and registration for most construction equipment is not mandated, which means that it is up to the owners to ensure that the equipment in question can easily be identified.

This can be done by marking all equipment with unique identifying tags, such as engraved PINs and owner applied numbers (OANs), in multiple locations on the equipment. This, when coupled with an up-to-date record of all equipment (including manufacturer, model number, purchase date, etc.), makes it much more likely that stolen equipment will be found, identified, and returned.

4. Lighting

Large, open, and outdoor, construction sites seldom have sufficient lighting to prevent criminals from being able to operate in shadow. However, by investing in a comprehensive lighting system that effectively eliminates places to hide, you can help deter criminals from targeting your site.

Alternatively, lights connecting to motion-sensing systems can have an even greater impact, by startling prowlers who enter your property.

5. Alarms

Speaking of startling prowlers, there are few things as likely to bring an attempted robbery to a screeching halt as well as an alarm. Audible sirens, flashing lights, and the very real threat of exposure generally compel intruders to drop what they’re doing and flee as quickly as possible.

Of course, if you’d rather not give the intruders a chance to get away, you could always invest in a silent alarm. This is designed to contact authorities directly, without giving the intruder any indication that an alarm has been triggered. Either alarm can be used with motion sensors, effectively automating the process.

6. Security Guards

Many construction site managers prefer not to put the security of their property in the hands of automation—this is where paid security guards come in handy. Security guards offer an added layer of protection by providing a human presence on-site.

Of course, they are not without their disadvantages: Security guards are expensive, may become bored or distracted during long shifts, and might even find themselves in physical danger should they interrupt a robbery in progress. Still, there are times when having a living person protecting your site may make all of the difference, which brings us to our final point…

7. Jobsite Camera And Video Surveillance

For constant eyes on your property, few options beat having a jobsite camera for video surveillance. Of course, your basic video camera system still has its flaws: cameras can be disabled from their power source, on-site recordings can be stolen or damaged, and criminals who know how to hide their faces can often get away despite being captured on video.

This is where Pro-Vigil’s remote security guards differ from conventional surveillance systems. These systems actively watch your property, noting and evaluating potential threats as they appear. Suspicious activity can then be evaluated by an off-site monitoring team.

Alternatively, the remote guard systems can automatically activate a variety of threat deterrent systems (such as sirens, strobe lights, and pre-recorded messages), or they can contact law-enforcement directly should the need arise. Pro-Vigil remote security guards combine the benefits of multiple systems, without any of the disadvantages, all at an affordable price.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]