When it comes to securing your workplace, the placement of your devices is just as important as the system itself. This is especially true of surveillance technology, where the positioning of a camera can make or break the ability of your system to protect you.
If you’re ready to take that all-important step and give your business a proper surveillance setup, you should know where to place security cameras before you make your purchase.
In this article, we’ll review some of the critical points where surveillance is essential, as well as some tips for maximizing the effectiveness of your new system.
Where to Place Security Cameras: 5 Key Areas
Though any coverage is better than no coverage at all, there are a few areas where any business should prioritize its surveillance. Here is where to place security cameras before securing other zones:
Entrances and Exits
Anyone and anything a camera could pick up in your business must first pass through a point of entry. In most situations, this includes the front doors, back doors, loading docks, and any emergency exits. In many cases, it pays to monitor the windows as well. Cameras at these locations can capture everyone who comes and goes, making it easier to track activity and identify perpetrators after a security incident.
Reception and Lobby Areas
If yours is the kind of business with a reception desk or lobby, such as a hotel, an office, or a medical clinic, there should always be a camera feed dedicated to this vital area. This will allow you to monitor foot traffic, identify unauthorized visitors, and help settle disputes when necessary. This is especially critical for businesses with restricted access zones.
Cash Registers or POS Systems
The point of sale (or POS) is the zone where your business’s profits are decided — it’s easily deserving of dedicated surveillance. Constant eyes on cash registers and POSs can both discourage employee theft and help honest workers feel more confident in their interactions. Any disputes with guests or issues with payment can be captured and reviewed later. In the event of a robbery, the captured footage provides valuable evidence for authorities.
Stockrooms and Storage Areas
Storage areas are frequent targets for theft, partly because there is so much merchandise to take and so few eyes to see it. Stockrooms should be a top priority when deciding where to place security cameras. Be sure to cover blind spots and the corners that house expensive items or sensitive materials. Better yet, make your surveillance cameras obvious to deter theft in the first place.
Parking Lots and Exterior Areas
Though technically outside of your business, parking lots are a common location for opportunistic theft and vandalism. If your employees are ever worried about the walk back to their vehicles, parking lot surveillance should be a priority. Be sure to capture employee parking zones, entrances, loading docks, and dumpsters. Weatherproof cameras with night-vision capabilities are ideal for these situations.
Tips for Maximizing Your Surveillance System
Choose the Proper Camera Types
Different areas will often put different demands on your surveillance system. While a bullet camera with directional focus and night-vision capabilities may be ideal for the parking lot, a dome camera with broader coverage and a tamper-resistant exterior will likely be a better fit for high-traffic interiors. When deciding where to place security cameras, also consider the specs such an area will require.
Minimize Blind Spots
Blind spots often go unnoticed until an issue reveals the problem — and by then, you may already be in trouble. When placing cameras, conduct a thorough assessment of the property to identify and double-check blind spots early on. Overlapping camera fields is a great way to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Keep Things Lit Up
Even the best security cameras require adequate lighting to capture clear footage. While night-vision cameras can help, investing in proper lighting is a far more reliable solution. If and when dark is a necessity, consider cameras with infrared and low-light capabilities.
Invest in Professional Monitoring
One of the best parts about a professional surveillance system is its ability to integrate with larger commercial alarm systems. Upgrading your surveillance technology with professional monitoring services can take your security strategy from reactive to proactive. In the event of a burglary or other emergency, professional dispatch teams can have response teams inbound in mere moments.
Elevate Your Surveillance With PEAK Alarm
Strategic camera placement is critical to the success of any security system. Still, it’s a complex task that may require a professional approach. That’s where PEAK Alarm can make all the difference.
For more than fifty years, our experts have provided cutting-edge surveillance solutions for businesses like yours across the Mountain West. We carry the most advanced cameras available, and we’ll be happy to design a security strategy based on the unique needs of your business. When in doubt, go the professional route — your business deserves the extra mile in safety and security. Ask our experts about professional surveillance to learn more.
Protect what matters most to you. Contact PEAK Alarm today.
