Retail store security advice

CCTV, otherwise known as closed-circuit television, is a must for retail businesses. If you are considering CCTV installation, then this is definitely something that is advised. However, before you jump right in, you should know the basics about this type of security system to deter theft.

It is important to be aware of what makes up a CCTV system so that you are knowledgeable regarding how you will be protected. Also, you can use, manage and maintain your retail store security system effectively as well.

The function of a CCTV system

The reason CCTV is the most desirable security method is because of the fact that it has various functions. It protects people via an array of different means and it also provides people with the capacity to catch the person or people that have burgled them as well. Nevertheless, they are not only used in relation to burglaries. In retail stores, CCTV systems are used so they can monitor areas susceptible to theft and ward off people attempting to steal. Nonetheless, another benefit is using them to monitor the inventory patterns too. You will find that in a lot of stores and even more so in factories and warehouses, there will be CCTV placed on areas that are particularly hazardous. The possibilities and options are endless. Of course, CCTV installation is primarily used for safety purposes, but this does not mean that it cannot be beneficial for other reasons either.

What does CCTV installation encompass?

First and foremost, there is the camera. The main decision here is whether to go for a black and white camera or a colour camera. The former is best for conditions whereby low light is present as colour cameras require an environment of high-level lighting in order to work effectively. Aside from this, there are other camera features as well. The camera can be fixed to the wall. However, you can use features such as panning, tilting, and zooming. The variation is vast nowadays and what option you go for depends on where the camera is going to be situated and what the purpose is. You also need to consider whether you want the camera to be disguised for not, some people do so because of aesthetic reasons whilst others prefer their camera to be hidden so that they can catch people off guard. Nevertheless, a visible camera may stop crime from occurring in the first place.

After the camera, another crucial component you need to be aware of is the transmission. What is this? Well, essentially this is responsible for carrying the video signal picked up from the camera and transferring it to the monitor so that it can be watched and reviewed. When it comes to CCTV installation the security company will have to decide between an array of different transmissions, including the likes of; coaxial cables, radio frequency, fibre optic cables, and much more. They will make their decision depending on your budget, the environment of your property, the distance and any environmental factors that come into play as well.

It goes without saying that the monitor is imperative too. It receives the signal from the transmission and allows you to view what has occurred. The most obvious comparison with a monitor is that of a television screen. Nonetheless, a CCTV monitor is of a much higher resolution – typically of more than 700 lines in comparison to a television.

And last but not least, the final crucial part of CCTV installation is the recording system. The majority of CCTVs still use VCR, otherwise known as video cassette recorders, in order to capture recordings. They are reliable, they make it easy to rewind and watch what occurred several times, and they hold a decent amount of footage in one go as well.

Other ways to secure your business

You also need to think about other threats to your retail store. The online threat is very real today. This is especially the case if you have an e-store. However, even if you do not sell goods online, your network systems and PoS systems could easily be hacked. Cyber security services are imperative, as is educating your employees. From downloading and using VPNs to creating effective passwords, make sure they are trained on all basic security measures, especially if you have a BYOD policy.

You also need to ensure you have relevant insurance policies in place. A lot of retail owners only think about the likes of fire and theft policies when it comes to security. But what about the security of your business? What if you were to lose a key employee? Did you know there are insurance plans in place for this? You can read how it works here. You can get data theft policies today too, linking to the former point about cyber security.

So there you have it; an insight into the world of CCTV security systems. It is always better to have a good idea before you go ahead and book your CCTV installation. You will now know what to expect and will be able to make a more well-rounded decision regarding various features.