Depending on the system, this will be an investment for the next 5 – 10 years and will play a vital role in day to day operations. If your goal is to increase the safety of employees, visitors, and reduce loss of valuable equipment, these are 6 options that most businesses consider.

Security Cameras provide valuable evidence in the event of a crime

From both owners and customers point of view, people are increasingly seeking more secure businesses. This is especially true in the Chicago area, where theft, carjackings and break-ins have noticeably increased since the pandemic era.

Security cameras can be a great option when your goal is to monitor activities inside and around your business. Most high-definition cameras record and send you notifications upon detecting motion. These alerts can be received directly to your phone if the system works with an App.

Additional services might include storing footage on the cloud. Security cameras and Cloud storage have become one of the most effective ways to work with police if an incident occurs. Video footage can aid law enforcement in investigations and can also be useful for internal reviews or insurance claims.

Beyond security purposes, cameras can be useful for tracking package deliveries. This perk, however, might be more important for establishments that don’t operate during regular business hours.

Alarm systems are crucial for discouraging criminal activity

The presence of alarm systems can deter potential burglars or vandals. Knowing that a business is equipped with alarms can discourage criminal activity.

Take for example, one of our clients that has a restaurant business.

Last year, two individuals tried to break in through the restaurant’s back door and outdoor security cameras captured the suspects. They were both seen approaching the back door of the business and forcing it open. As soon as the door was opened, video footage displayed the burglar alarm going off and the suspects running away immediately.

This rapid resolution works well because Alarm Systems can be connected to monitoring services and alert law enforcement or security personnel immediately. When a breach occurs,  this process ensures a swift response to potential threats, minimizing the risk of theft or damage.

An optional feature that can be added to alarms is Panic Buttons.  A panic button is essential to businesses that have a storefront but private offices can also find it useful if they need to de-escalate a situation that has gotten out of control. This alarm immediately alerts relevant personnel and provides your location and type of emergency.

For additional peace of mind, opt for a Panic Button that allows employees to not only send alerts indicating an issue but also receive confirmation that their alerts have been received.

Access control restricts entry to authorized personnel only

Access Control helps protect sensitive areas within the business and ensures that only qualified individuals can access specific resources.

This essential security tool supports your building’s daily operations. It provides easy access to tenants, maintenance crew, and outside contractors. This is why controlling your access control system remotely is helpful. You can easily provide entry to a locked site even when you’re not physically there.

Intercom systems improve two-way conversation with anyone in your organization

Intercom systems are an innovative, convenient way to improve two-way conversation with anyone in your organization. This service is ideal for offices that are not open to the public or have an “only by appointment policy.” If your employees are located in different areas of a building or in different buildings, you can effectively grant/deny access.

Additionally, an intercom system works well alongside surveillance systems such as cameras to make it easier to greet incoming visitors and direct them to certain areas of your business.

Security Gates Provide a Physical Barrier

Security gates provide a physical barrier for businesses with storefronts. Alone, they pose as a deterrent from crime, dissuading intruders from entering a property. Because they cover both doors and windows, burglars tend to perceive it as “too much work.”

In combination with a visible outdoor camera, chances are, intruders would move on to an easier target.

Security is essential for businesses. By incorporating one or multiple systems, electronic security plays a vital role in protecting from a wide range of threats, ensuring both physical security and peace of mind for business owners and employees alike.

The post 6 Business Security Essentials for Peace of Mind appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Here is how.

Receive a Discount on Insurance Premiums

Many insurance companies provide a discount on insurance premiums if the property has a security system in place. In a way, they are providing an incentive for theft protection and the possibility of reducing the number of claims. This is a win-win situation for a property owner. Not only will you get an initial discount but if your claims decrease, you will also keep premiums from rising.

If you are unsure about the requirements needed to get a discount, talk to your insurance provider to find more information. Many require a certificate of installation to verify that a security system has been installed in your property. If this is the case, the company that installed your system can provide this for you. Currently, VinTech Systems provides certificates of installation for burglar alarms only. Our clients for which we have installed alarm systems and have a current monitoring service can request a certificate.

Resolve a Slip and Fall Claim

According to the National Safety Council, falls accounted for more than 8 million injuries in 2019. To put it into perspective, 8 million is a lot when the City of Chicago reported to have 2.7 million residents in that same year. Moreover, more than 39,000 of these incidents resulted in deaths. This is why the possibility of an incident like this happening in your property should be taken seriously.

A slip and fall claim cannot only cost you thousands of dollars but it can also mean serious legal problems. This is where a high definition security camera can be helpful. Footage from a camera can help you dispute a false slip and fall claim. It can clear you from liability and even save you from receiving a fine or sentence.

Reduce or Replace Security Personnel

A security system might seem like a high investment at the beginning. Especially when you are trying to decide which system(s) are best for your property. However, if you already have security personnel in your building, those two or three salaries a year will probably add to a much larger sum after a couple of years. Additionally, unlike security guards, a security system can monitor 24hr/7.

A Security Camera System is Always Recording

For example, a high-definition security camera records motion and automatically stores footage. In case of an incident, this footage can be used for evidence. Nonetheless, some camera systems might have a storage limit. One of the factors that affect video storage is whether the camera is focused on high or low traffic areas.  This is why it’s important to download and save footage as soon as an incident happens. VinTech Systems takes pride in designing systems that work with the needs of our clients to make sure their footage requirements are met.

A second example is access control. This system can help you restrict who has access to your property and at which times. For example, office employees can be set up to have access to the front entrance of the building from 6 a.m. to  6 p.m., cleaning personnel from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and overnight security guards from 11 p.m. – 6 a.m. As precise as you want it to be, access control allows you to control who accesses your property. You will hold the “key” to your success in reducing incidents and losses in your property which in return will save you money. And although security systems cannot completely replace security personnel, they can effectively monitor activity and provide time stamped evidence.

Reduce Wear and Tear on Smart Devices and Cost of Energy Bills

The latest technology in security systems allows you to connect smart devices to remotely control lights, thermostats, and other appliances from an app. Turning off these appliances when not in use, can certainly reduce the cost of your electric bill. Furthermore, this capability can also extend the life of your devices. This means that more time will pass before you have to replace them.

The most important thing about having a security system in your property is to give you peace of mind but that doesn’t mean you won’t appreciate the additional perks. From saving time and resources to preventing losses, the right security system can save you money in more than one way. With these simple steps, you also make sure that you are getting the best return for your investment and help preserve valuable resources for future generations.

The post 4 Ways Security Systems Can Save you Money appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Access control is just what your property might be needing if you live in Chicago. As a property owner or manager, you appreciate all the assistance you can get. Your business’ security, however, is a task you want to delegate to a reliable source. So, how exactly does this system operate?

Let’s begin with the basic components

First, we have the access cards, key fobs, and keypads. Most people are familiar with access cards. Physically, these cards feel and look like a standard ID or credit card but they work as an electronic key when inserted into the card reader. The key fob has a similar function, but instead of being inserted, it is held at close proximity to the reader. In appearance, the key fob is similar to a car open/lock remote control and can be placed along with the rest of your keys. Lastly, the access control keypad uses numeric keys. Each person needs to physically enter a code to be granted entry.

Customize your security system

What if you already have a system in place but its old or not operating properly?

The post Does Your Property Need Access Control? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

VinTech Systems is currently looking for a full-time service and installation technician. Finding a job that matches your interests, offers competitive salary, and a balanced personal life is possible. Our eleven years of success are based on our competitiveness in the industry and a strong team. This position will be open beginning Monday August 28th, as one of our team members will be relocating to Indiana. We wish him the best!

Are you or someone you know looking for a service technician position?  Do you think you will be a good fit for our team?  If so, consider the following 8 questions and follow the link to submit your resume.

1. Do you have a High School diploma or equivalent?

2. Do you possess an IL driver license with a good driving record?

3. Can you pass a comprehensive background check?

4. What security installation experience do you have?

5. Do you have an interest in security?

6. Can you positively represent our company with new and long-term clients?

7. Are you willing to learn and are you open to changes in procedures and company innovation?

8. What schedule and salary are you looking for?

The post We are Hiring a Service/Installation Technician! appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The cost of not having construction security systems.

It has been estimated that the cost of construction theft and vandalism is $1 billion a year and has been increasing 10 percent since 1996. (Source: National Insurance Crime Bureau and Associated General Contractors of America) An unsecured site becomes a shopping ground for common thieves.

The cost of not protecting valuable equipment from potential theft can be devastating.  Many construction site developers rely on insurances to protect their assets. They don’t realize how much they can lose until they are robbed.

Set a security budget for the duration of your project.

Because payment is rising for recycled copper, stealing copper wires and pipes is lucrative for construction thieves. Keep in mind that thieves will not be considerate. They will slash drywall just to get to wiring and pipes. Additionally, this can cause damage to furnaces and air conditioners. A thief can cause $25,000 in property damage to walk away with only $200 worth of copper. Nonetheless, you are left to pay additional expenses.

These are seven strategies every owner must know to secure their construction site.

Use Additional lighting After Dark

Burglars work mostly at night, they look for dark sites to burglarize & vandalize. Late night & weekends are the most common times thieves strike construction sites. Making sure there is plenty of lighting on the job site makes it difficult for a thief. Adding motion sensor lighting will help keep your site secure.

Mark and Photograph Your Equipment

Engrave your driver’s license number in 2 places. The first can be noticeable. The second should be hidden. This number can be tracked in all 50 states. If a burglary takes place, this information is vital to provide to the authorities and your insurance company.

Add Proper Signage

Add a Cameras on Premises sign to prevent a thief from stepping foot on the construction site. Additionally, consider using a “No trespassing” sign to prevent vandalism, theft, and liability.

Choose High Definition Security Cameras

Security cameras monitor work sites to capture unsafe working conditions and/or accidents. With today’s technology, not only can you see your cameras in real time but you can also be notified when someone is approaching the premises.

Add Access Control

Adding access control to your construction site is possible. Contractors can use this service to monitor who enters and exits their sites. With regular keys, you never know who or how many people have access to your site. Furthermore, depending on the size of the construction site, it might be difficult to make sure all gates are locked. A reputable security company can analyze your property and suggest if access control is a good option for your property.

Build a Watch Team

Reach out to your neighbors and let them know you are working on a project in the area. Ask them to keep their eyes open for any suspicious activity. By staying vigilant, you let the contractors and subcontractors know you are paying attention. Additionally,work with your local police department to prevent theft, vandalism, and trespassers on your job site.

Use reliable technology

Some construction sites don’t have electricity so it’s hard to get power to secure the perimeter. In this case, we recommend a wireless equipment that can protect your property when power is unavailable. Video verification alarm systems provide security when no electricity is present. Furthermore, when triggered by motion the alarm sounds and captures the image of the trespasser. Police will be dispatched immediately once an intruder is verified.

Our recent case study

This is a 2.5 acre home under construction. The developers contacted us because of  they were experiencing persistent vandalism and trespassing. After investing money in fences, ranging from $500 – $2,500, they concluded it was costing them more money to keep replacing them than protecting the property. After completing a site survey, we customized a security package to cover all areas of concern. Check out this video to witness how a Video Verification Alarm has kept this home safe. Intruders were scared away once the siren was activated.

The post 7 Truths about Construction Security Systems appeared first on VinTech Systems.