Tag Archives: security cameras

SECURING YOUR PROPERTY – THE TWO PERIMETERS (GUEST POST)

Vandalism; first defined by the Romans, this ever-present threat continues to give property owners something else to think about when maintaining their asset. In the absence of a single solution to eradicate this problem, those with something to protect must a construct a physical force field, covering both the outer and inner perimeters of their owned area.

The idea behind implementing a watertight security strategy is that almost immediately, the power is handed back to its rightful owner. Vandals like to think that they can stroll into a property, inflict hundreds, sometimes thousands of pounds worth of damage and exit without trace. This sense of control can be denied by introducing two lines of defence, policing key outer and inner zones of a property.    

These are two of the most important areas to protect and, along with natural access control, almost define physical security. With both inner and outer lines covered, here’s what a typical security plan will involve.  

The outer perimeter

Covering – The best way of halting a stream of attacks is to cut off the source – its entry point if you will. Vandals cannot inflict damage on your property without physically getting into it, so you must provide a strong line of security at the cut-off point. This is the outer perimeter, a line that can be crossed on foot or by car that defines where your property starts. This area, technically, is where you have made your initial investment and any damage inflicted from within will have to be repaired by yourself.  

Solutions – Possible solutions for policing an outer perimeter can be anything from a large hedge to more extreme measures, like a barbed wire fence. Some will decide to point their security cameras to this area, or hire a guard to stand by it. These solutions aim to draw a clearly visible line around the property, alerting criminals of where they’re not welcome. In deciding which type of what type of outer solution would suit your own business, you need to weigh up the risk of vandals and assess exactly what might be targeted.   

The inner perimeter

Covering – In the event of your outer perimeter being breached, you must have a second line of security to shield off attacks on your building. The inner perimeter is less of a line and is more or less attached to the asset, so think security measures for halting access via doors, windows and any other entry points.     

Solutions – Although a sturdy lock and key remains at the forefront of this strategy, technology plays an integral role in covering other areas of the inner perimeter. Protecting this line can usually be accomplished through the use of alarm systems and security cameras, which can stop vandals in their tracks without even being activated. A CCTV camera almost acts as a warning sign, informing vandals that if any break-in is attempted, their actions will be captured and relayed back to the police. The same goes for an alarm system, the use of which will be well sign posted to tempt vandals out of committing their act.       

Regardless of how big the requirement is, taking care of these two lines really will give you the protection you need. All you’re required to do is assess the risk at hand and contact a professional security company to discuss possible solutions. Never underestimate the threat and opt for the best you can afford. After all, your investment could save you a significant amount on damages.  

Author Byline:

Finley Talbot is a keen blogger with a deep interest in security systems and the upcoming technology in homeland defence. He is also a season ticket holder for Arsenal Football Club, as well as being an armchair critic of everything happening in football.

AURORA TRAGEDY PROMPTS SECURITY REASSESSMENT (GUEST POST)

America faced disbelief and heartbreak as they learned of the killing spree in the Aurora, Colorado Movie Theater that left 12 dead and 58 wounded. Out of the tragedy, heroes emerged from the scene that night when 4 of the 12 dead sacrificed their life to save another.  Other stories of bravery have covered the headlines and an outpouring of support has flowed from communities across the nation that somewhat imitate the historical and unexpected event of 9/11. 

 The horrendous event of 9/11 left a cloud of fear encompassing America as high alert terrorist’s warnings became everyday news. Sporting events no longer teamed with fans.  Busy malls and other public facilities where people gathered were quiet, while airline travel came to a standstill.  Government officials reacted by taking immediate action to protect the country from another incident.  

Since then, the government, corporations, small businesses and homeowners have found solace by incorporating Closed Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) as part of their security plan.  CCTV cameras have been proven to deter crime. They can be seen inside and out of public buildings; they line the streets, and act as watchdogs in homes across the country.  If a crime does occur it can be captured in high resolution, in color, up close and even in the dark. 

The Aurora Theater, owned by Century 16 theaters, is quickly reassessing their security needs, including the installation of security cameras to prevent or identify a similar reoccurrence, as are other theaters across the country.  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security stated that they are working with the National Association of Theater Owners to ensure a security checklist is being followed at theaters. Despite whether or not this event could have been prevented by security cameras, metal detectors and armed personnel, surveillance cameras continues to be more of a need than ever before.  

There are numerous CCTV cameras solutions available to help protect businesses and high-traffic, public areas.  The Dome Camera and PTZ camera below are ideal examples.  

Dome Cameras, best for covering large fixed areas are most often mounted to a ceiling and found indoors; however, outdoor dome cameras are designed for protection from the elements are also available. The camera is housed in a tinted dome, preventing a criminal from knowing which way the camera is pointing.  The dome also consists of vandal resistance hard acrylic to prevent the camera from being disabled.

The Pan, Tilt and Zoom Camera (PTZ) camera is effective in panning, tilting or zooming in on a suspicious activity for a closer look.  This type of camera usually mounts from the ceiling or wall from a pendant allowing for 360 degree continuous rotation.  PTZ cameras are available in both indoor and outdoor models. By using a joystick the user has the ability to quickly pan an area, as well as tilt the camera and zoom into a specific area for closer observation. 

The Security Product Depot is deeply saddened by the events that took place in Aurora, Colorado and extend their sympathies to all involved. 

The Security Product Depot is an established online provider of physical security products. As an innovative supplier of online security solutions, they are committed to offering the broadest array of CCTV camera systems, door hardware, locks, and safes for securing government, school facilities, commercial businesses and residents.  

Written by Mike Hassebrock from The Security Product Depot

Isn’t it a sad statement that our children aren’t able to attend school, or citizens go to a movie without the threat of some tragic event such as this?  Having grown up in an “age of innocence”, it truly shows how the world has changed.   Texas America Safety Company and Blog4Safety join The Security Product Depot in extending our sympathies to those whose lives were drastically changed that day. pb