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| 10 | 2006 |
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| Security & Surveillance Systems: An Introduction |
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Considering the installation of a security system for your home or business? Security and surveillance systems can not only bring you peace of mind, they can also deter crime, reduce your insurance costs, create a marketing tool for your business, and offer many other benefits. With the advancements of surveillance technology, IP-based security systems now also enable you to enjoy the benefits of digital and internet technologies wrapped into a convenient, cost-effective security solution.
When deciding whether a security system is right for you, first consider the facts. According to the Bureau of Justice crime statistics, “Property crime makes up slightly more than three-quarters of all crime in the United States,” with property crimes defined as burglary, theft and motor vehicle theft. And, in 84% of those cases, the perpetrator gained access into the victim’s home or other building on the property. While those figures may be unsettling, the executive director of the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association cited industry stats in an interview for the Daily News, stating that homes with alarm systems are three times less likely to be burglarized than those without. If expense is a concern, the costs of installing a security system can be made up for in reduced insurance premiums. Consumer Reports reported that “burglar, fire and smoke alarms can bring insurance premium discounts of 5%, while sprinkler and alarm systems that alert the police, can mean savings of 15% to 20%,” according to the Daily News.
In addition, a security and surveillance system can offer much more than increased safety. For homes, security systems can offer sprinkler systems and smoke and burglary alarms that notify police of problems. Many have also found them useful as nanny cams, monitoring repairmen when you can’t be at home, and keeping an eye on pets when you’re away.
For businesses, the benefits are endless. Not only does it deter theft and vandalism within your business or in outdoor parking areas, it also reduces employee theft, which accounts for a percentage of most company losses every year. For restricted areas, it enables entrance monitoring and intercom capabilities; and for businesses with multiple locations, remote monitoring eliminates the need to have a surveillance staff at each location. Special features such as monitoring of temperature-controlled areas, water pressure or water levels can also be added. Some companies have even begun using their surveillance systems as a marketing tool to determine how much traffic the store has on an average day compared to how much the company does in sales. Do one out of 10 people make a purchase? Or one out of 50? They also may use it to watch foot traffic. For example, is there a particular area of the store that receives very little consumer attention? Or, is there a product, aisle, or display that consumers linger at longer? They then use this information to provide better store displays and layouts.
Depending on the type of security solution you select, there are a variety of options available, from analog to fully IP-based, as well as a number of camera types, from infrared and wireless to mini-cameras and all sizes and functions in between. Determine your security goals, pick your camera locations and then determine the system that best fits your needs.
For more information on setting up a security system, don’t miss “Surveillance Systems: Are you ready to go digital?”
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About The Brookfield Group
The Brookfield Group has become a leader in IT, ISP, ASP and web solutions by providing next level technology solutions managed by experts who give you peace of mind without the tech-talk. The company's services are customized to fit any enterprise-size businesses and include: IT project management; hosting solutions and maintenance; systems security and patches; telecommunications services, server and desktop setup, repair and applications; network infrastructure design; audio visual products; surveillance and security solutions; as well as a variety of other software, hardware, services and accessories. Located in Carmel, Indiana, more information about The Brookfield Group products and services is available at www.thebrookfieldgroup.com or by calling 317.524.6000.
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