Choosing the Right Surveillance Cameras for Your Business

Surveillance cameras are not merely a deterrent for potential burglars; they are a critical component in the safeguarding of any business. With an array of technologies and options available on the market today, selecting the right surveillance system requires understanding your specific needs and the technology that can meet them. Surveillance solutions can offer much more than simple video recording, with features such as remote monitoring, motion detection, and even AI-powered analytics. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the surveillance system that best fits your business, helping to ensure that your assets remain secure. Keep reading to gain insights on tailoring the perfect surveillance setup for your business environment.

The market offers various camera types tailored for different surveillance needs. Dome cameras are popular due to their discreet design and wide-angle coverage, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Their ability to obscure the direction they are facing adds a layer of security against potential criminals. Bullet cameras, known for their long-range visibility, are perfect for monitoring large open spaces like parking lots.

Advancements in technology have made IP cameras prevalent, offering remote access to live and recorded footage via the internet. This feature is crucial for responsive monitoring. Considering environmental conditions is essential when placing cameras. Outdoor cameras need to be robust, weatherproof, and capable of operating in different lighting conditions. A dome surveillance camera is particularly useful in environments requiring versatile and secure surveillance from various vantage points.

To select the right surveillance system for your business, conduct a risk assessment to identify vulnerable areas and potential threats. High-risk sectors like retail or finance may require more robust surveillance coverage. Consider the size and layout of your business when evaluating camera placement. Larger areas may require cameras with wider viewing angles or pan-tilt-zoom capabilities, while smaller spaces may benefit from fixed cameras at strategic locations.

Balancing discrete and visible camera installations depends on the nature of your business operations and potential threats. Some businesses prefer overt cameras for deterrence, while others prefer smaller, less noticeable cameras. Consider the future scalability of your surveillance system, as your business grows and security needs change.

Selecting the right surveillance system features is crucial, as they can save storage space and reduce time spent reviewing footage. Modern cameras offer advanced functionalities like motion detection, facial recognition technology, and infrared or low-light technology for continuous monitoring. Integrating these features with other security systems like access control can create a comprehensive security infrastructure.

Night vision quality is also important, as crime doesn’t only occur during daylight hours. Storage and data management are also critical factors, with options including local storage, cloud-based solutions, or a combination of both. Cloud storage offers a secure and convenient way to access recorded footage from anywhere, anytime, making it essential for businesses operating across multiple locations.

When choosing a surveillance system, it’s crucial to understand its primary function. Surveillance systems record events and serve as a visual deterrent to criminal activity, ensuring the safety of premises, inventory, and employees. Business surveillance involves factors like camera number and storage type, which should align with the business’s size and layout.

Modern surveillance systems can also interface with alarm systems to alert users of suspicious activities. Video feed quality and resolution are crucial for identifying individuals or activities. Advancements in technology allow night vision, providing clear footage even during nighttime. Remote monitoring ensures continuous surveillance, providing peace of mind.

Implementing an ideal surveillance system is crucial for optimal performance. Proper installation and professional services can ensure cameras are correctly positioned and configured for optimal coverage. Regular maintenance is essential for system longevity and effectiveness. Scheduled check-ups include cleaning lenses, checking hardware for wear and tear, and updating software. Staying informed about technological advancements in surveillance can enhance security measures and protect against potential legal challenges.

Ensure your surveillance system complies with privacy and data protection regulations to avoid legal challenges. The system’s operational status is only as good as its operational status. Training staff on proper use and understanding of the system ensures everyone is on the same page about security protocols. A well-trained team can respond swiftly to security alerts and maintain surveillance integrity.

Overall, the key to choosing the right surveillance cameras for your business lies in careful assessment, understanding the plethora of available options, and the willingness to invest in both the technology and maintenance. A thoughtfully selected and well-maintained surveillance system can provide not just security for your business, but also valuable peace of mind.

 

ASAP Saves Time when Dispatching

ASAP Saves Time, Improves Accuracy, and Increases Efficiency between ECCs and Monitoring Centers

What is ASAP?
The Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP), launched in 2011 as a public-private partnership, is designed to increase the efficiency and reliability of emergency electronic signals from monitoring companies to PSAPs (Now referred to as ECCs). ASAP utilizes ANSI standard protocols developed cooperatively by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) and The Monitoring Association. With ASAP, critical life safety signals and accurate information are processed in seconds, not minutes, through the Nlets system of state-to-state PSAP/ECC communication, insuring that complete and accurate information is transmitted to the PSAP/ECC every time.

 

How to Build Lifelong Residential Customers

Article Presented by Will West

Smart home services offer enhanced protection, convenience, and peace of mind, making them valuable add-ons for security companies. They give integrators both immediate revenue from additional gear and labor, and the opportunity to integrate the security system more deeply into customers’ daily lives.

New data from Parks Associates reveals that the more smart home devices a user has, the more likely they are to own a security system. In her June “The Smart Money” column in Security Business, Parks Associates’ Jennifer Kent encourages integrators to “inspire these middle-market buyers to acquire their next 3-5 smart home devices.”

The implication is that smart home devices are not just a lucrative system add-on; instead, they are a catalyst that evolves casual consumers into hot prospects. This suggests that integrators have the opportunity to lead with smart home solution sales to form a relationship with customers who will purchase more sophisticated solutions and services over time.

Consumers want the flexibility to choose devices from multiple manufacturers, and they need support. By offering ongoing maintenance and upgrades, security companies can build lasting relationships with customers. This loyalty deepens customer value over time.

 

Will West is CEO of OliverIQ, which provides an app-based platform for managing the connected home designed for integrator partners. www.oliveriq.com  (855) 789-7500

 

Upgrade old Equipment to Reduce False Alarms

In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, the importance of maintaining and upgrading equipment cannot be overstated, particularly when it comes to systems designed to safeguard lives and assets. One area where this is especially crucial is in alarm and detection systems, where outdated technology can lead to a significant number of false alarms. Upgrading old equipment is not just a matter of keeping up with trends but is vital for enhancing safety, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

False alarms—those that trigger without an actual threat—can have serious implications. In security and safety systems, such as fire alarms, security alarms, and industrial sensors, false alarms can:

  1. Distract and Desensitize: Frequent false alarms can cause people to become complacent, leading to slower reactions during genuine emergencies. This desensitization can increase the risk of injury or damage when a real threat arises.

  2. Strain Resources: Emergency services often respond to false alarms, diverting resources from actual emergencies. This not only strains emergency responders but can also lead to increased operational costs for organizations that are frequently triggering false alarms.

  3. Reduce Trust in the System: Repeated false alarms can erode confidence in the reliability of alarm systems. When users begin to doubt the efficacy of their alarms, they may be less likely to take necessary precautions during a real threat.

  4. Increase Costs: Beyond the potential costs associated with emergency response and resource allocation, false alarms can also lead to fines or increased insurance premiums. For businesses, this can translate into significant financial strain.

Upgrading old equipment is a proactive measure that addresses several of these issues. Here’s why it’s crucial:

  1. Enhanced Accuracy and Reliability: Newer equipment typically incorporates advanced technologies and improved algorithms that significantly reduce the likelihood of false alarms. Modern sensors and detection systems are designed to discern between real threats and benign factors with greater precision.

  2. Better Integration and Connectivity: Contemporary alarm systems often feature better integration capabilities with other safety and security infrastructure. This improved connectivity ensures that alarms are part of a cohesive network that can more accurately assess and respond to threats.

  3. Improved Sensitivity and Calibration: As technology evolves, so do the methods for calibrating and fine-tuning equipment. Upgraded systems come with enhanced sensitivity controls and calibration options that reduce the risk of false alarms triggered by environmental changes or equipment malfunctions.

  4. Advanced Features and Adaptability: Newer systems often come with features that allow for greater adaptability to different environments and conditions. For instance, modern fire alarms can better distinguish between smoke and steam, reducing the likelihood of false alarms in areas where both are common.

  5. Cost Efficiency Over Time: While the initial investment in upgrading equipment can be significant, the long-term savings in reduced false alarm incidents, lower emergency response costs, and decreased maintenance expenses can outweigh the upfront costs.

When considering an upgrade, it’s essential to assess the existing systems thoroughly. This involves:

  • Evaluating the Current System’s Performance: Determine the frequency and causes of false alarms to understand which components need attention.

  • Consulting with Experts: Engage with professionals who can provide recommendations based on current technology trends and your specific needs.

  • Planning for Integration: Ensure that the new equipment can integrate seamlessly with existing systems and infrastructure to maximize efficiency and reliability.

  • Training and Education: Train staff and users on the new system to ensure they understand its features and capabilities, which can further reduce the risk of false alarms.

Upgrading old equipment is not merely a technological upgrade; it is a crucial step toward ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability. By investing in modern systems that reduce false alarms, organizations and individuals can enhance their safety measures, optimize resource use, and maintain confidence in their alarm systems. In a world where every second counts during emergencies, having reliable, accurate equipment is not just beneficial—it is imperative.

Welcome New Members!

We would like to Welcome our newest Members to the LLSSA.

Ann Day of Cobalt HSS Acquisition Company was accepted as our newest regular member.  HSS is a security solutions company, specializing in custom-designed surveillance systems, access control & door locks, intrusion detection alarms, system integrations and much more.  Check out their website at https://homelandsafetysystems.com/
 
REV.io has joined as an affiliate member.  REV.io offers best-in-class automation software for billing, customer management, and business management automation (via Rev.io PSA) for communications and technology service providers.  Visit their website at https://www.rev.io/
 
Make sure you welcome them to the association the next time you see them.
 

LLSSA State Meeting Highlights Innovation and Collaboration

The Louisiana Life Safety & Security Association (LLSSA) hosted its Region 3 State Meeting on August 15th just outside in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The event was held at Bayou Rum Distiller, the oldest family-owned and operated sugar mill in the United States. This event brought together integrators, industry vendors, the State Fire Marshals office and local Communication Center to discuss the latest advancements, best practices, and future directions for the profession. 

With a focus on fostering collaboration and innovation, the LLSSA State Meeting featured a dynamic program of CEU classes, legislative updates, and presentations with open discussions. The event was a resounding success, drawing more than 20 attendees from the Lake Charles area. 

Key highlights of the meeting included: 

  • CEU Classes: Industry experts Alarm Monitoring Services, DSC/JCI, Alarm.com, and United Central Control shared their insights on emerging trends in life safety and property protection. 
  • State Meeting Presentations: Speakers shared their insights on current changes to legislature and ways in which those in attendance could aid in the fight against false alarms that are crippling many communication centers and local police and fire departments.  Notable speakers included Captain Ricky Roubique of the State Fire Marshal’s Office Special Services Division and Richard McGuire or the Calcasieu Communications Department.   
  • Networking Opportunities: The event provided ample opportunities for professionals to connect and collaborate, including a Bayou Rum Tour and Tasting. 

“The Bayou Rum Distillery was a nice location for the Region 3 State Meeting,” said United Central Control Account Executive, Felipe Presas.   “The content given by the presenters addressed active and current issues especially where alarm monitoring is leading to Remote Video Monitoring.” 

The LLSSA extends its gratitude to all speakers, sponsors, and volunteers who made the event possible. Special thanks go to the Bayou Rum Distillery for their exceptional hospitality and support. 

For more information about the LLSSA and upcoming events, please visit www.llssa.org. 

 

Key Considerations when Selecting an Integrator

Article Presented by Mark McCormick

Answering a few critical questions will enable campus security directors to recognize an integrator that will be a partner

Regardless of whether an organization needs a retrofit, technology upgrade or new, fully integrated security operations, one of the most critical decisions a campus security director can make is choosing a systems integrator.

With today’s constantly changing threat landscape and rapidly maturing technologies, working with a systems integrator that will allow the organization to remain agile now and into the future is more important than ever before.

Ideally, a systems integrator will become a trusted partner, a guide and a source of knowledge. But finding that trusted partner can be a challenge. Let’s dive into three critical questions that will help campus security leaders on their journey to finding the right one for their organization.

Why Does an Organization Need a Systems Integrator?

Three of the biggest reasons why security leaders need a systems integrator are installation, service, and support. First and foremost, most campuses don’t have the resources or technological background to conduct their own installations.

What Characteristics Should Campuses Look for in a Security Integrator?

Many times, manufacturers and systems integrators get out bid strictly due to cost, but the true value of an integrator (and the chosen technologies) will come from gaining a trusted partner that will support an organization through growth and into the future.

Here are a few characteristics to consider when vetting a system integrator:

1. An Eye to the Future

2. Established Experience

3. Solid Service and Support

4. An Interest in You

How Can Campus Security Leaders Find the Right Partner?

Finding a quality systems integrator requires focusing on a few practical suggestions. Research is one of the most important elements here. One of the best ways to find potential systems integrators is talking to peers at other schools, institutions of higher education, and healthcare facilities to learn about their integrators and solutions.

By following practical recommendations on finding a systems integrator, campus security directors can find a knowledgeable, trustworthy partner that will act as a voice of reason and understanding, while guiding the organization to get the most out of its security solutions.

 

Mark McCormack is senior national sales manager for global and national accounts at Axis Communications.

2024 2nd Place Scholarship Awarded

The Louisiana Life Safety & Security Association (LLSSA) is honored to offer a Youth Scholarship Program. The program was created to promote goodwill among the electronic systems industry and police, fire, and EMT officials by providing college scholarship awards to their deserving sons or daughters.  

This year’s second place goes to Madison Chaplain.  Madison is a graduate of Archbishop Chapelle High School with a GPA of 3.94.  She plans to attend University of the Holy Cross this Fall.  Her father, David Chaplain is a Lieutenant at the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department.  Madison impressed the Scholarship Committee with her academics but won our hearts with her adoration for her father and her commitment to her being the best she can be to make her family proud.

We congratulate Madison on her academic success and wish her continued success in her endeavors yet to come.  To David we say “Good Job, your daughter is a delight to have met and gotten to know during this process.  Stay safe and thank you for your service to your community.”

You can read Madison’s essay using the link below.  If you know a High School senior in LA who is the child of a police, fire, or EMT first responder, remind them to apply for this scholarship and perhaps next year we will be announcing their name.

The Importance of Putting Systems on Test

The Hidden Cost of False Dispatches: The Importance of Putting Systems on Test

False dispatches are a significant issue in the security industry, costing businesses time, money, and resources. A frequent cause of these unnecessary alarms is technicians failing to put systems on test while performing maintenance or installations. This seemingly minor oversight can have substantial consequences, affecting not only the efficiency of security operations but also the reputation of the companies involved.

When a security system is being serviced or installed, technicians often need to trigger alarms as part of the process. Whether they are testing sensors, replacing parts, or conducting routine maintenance, these actions can unintentionally activate the alarm system if it is not placed on test mode. In test mode, the system can be checked without sending alarm signals to the monitoring center or emergency responders.

However, when technicians forget to put the system on test, the alarms triggered during their work are treated as genuine threats. This results in false dispatches, where police, fire departments, or private security firms respond to what they believe is an emergency. These responses not only waste valuable resources but also risk desensitizing authorities to genuine alarms, potentially leading to slower response times in real emergencies.

False dispatches are more than just an inconvenience—they carry significant costs. For security companies, frequent false alarms can lead to fines from local governments or law enforcement agencies, as many jurisdictions impose penalties to deter unnecessary dispatches. Additionally, customers may face increased insurance premiums due to the perceived unreliability of their security systems.

Moreover, repeated false alarms can erode trust between customers and their security providers. Clients expect their security systems to function correctly, and when false alarms occur, they may question the competence of the technicians or the reliability of the system itself. In some cases, customers may even seek alternative providers, leading to lost business for the security company.

Technicians play a crucial role in preventing false dispatches. Proper training and adherence to protocols are essential in ensuring that systems are placed on test before any work begins. Technicians should be well-versed in the specific procedures for each type of security system they work with, as the steps to place a system on test can vary.

Regular reminders and ongoing education can help reinforce the importance of this step. Additionally, companies can implement checklists or digital reminders within their service management software to prompt technicians to verify that the system is on test before proceeding with any work. This simple step can significantly reduce the likelihood of false dispatches.

The failure to put systems on test is a common yet avoidable cause of false dispatches in the security industry. By prioritizing proper procedures and investing in technician training, security companies can mitigate this risk, saving time, money, and resources while maintaining customer trust. In an industry where reliability is paramount, taking the extra step to ensure systems are on test is not just good practice—it’s essential.

LLSSA is a Member of NESA for You

NESA Logo
NESA Logo

The National Electronic Security Alliance (NESA) was formed to promote communication between state associations and to influence and monitor electronic security and alarm industry federal legislation.

Leaders of state associations teamed together to form NESA to help them solve common problems and to help them serve their members. NESA is focused on the needs of the state associations.

NESA is a federation of state associations established to serve and promote the electronic systems industry at the direction of, and through its affiliated state associations. Seven state associations are part of NESA – Arkansas Security Alarm Association (ASAA), Kansas Electronic Security Association (KESA), Louisiana Life Safety & Security Association (LLSSA), Maryland Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (MDBFAA), Oklahoma Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (OKBFAA) and Texas Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (TBFAA).