The Security Technology Executive magazine wrote an article about local Chicago metal scrap yard Aluma. The scrap yard is currently working to overcome recurrent theft.

Why are Scrap Yards an Easy Target?

Aluma is not alone. Scrap yards have a history of being easy targets to thieves. Burglars know that scrap metal such as copper, aluminum, and pipes offer a quick a buck. Additionally, scrap metal is near impossible to trace if stolen. All of these factors combined create a perfect storm. Scrap yard owners loose thousands of dollars. For instance, a commercial sheet of stainless steel or aluminum can cost as much as $2,500.

In the case of Aluma, it was targeted by thieves during the night and losing thousands of dollar. The metal pieces burglars were stealing were very large and heavy.

Their first solution of hiring a security guard was costing upward of $10,000 a month. To save some money, but still protect their property, their next solution was installing a video surveillance system to be the “eyes and ears” overseeing their six acre site. Unfortunately, the system was giving false alarms every time the wind blew or it rained. Their security company reevaluated Aluma’s needs and concluded that burglars would require a vehicle to haul away their stolen loot. Wireless motion sensor transmitters were then installed at their three entrance/exit roads, triggering signals back to their central control station, and alerting of any unauthorized activity.

The end results

Aluma got a return on their investment by recouping their costs of installing their surveillance system. They reallocated their $120,000 security guard costs and completely eliminated being an easy target for theft.

With having scrap yards as a couple of VinTech’s clients, we know our clients have faced similar problems like Aluma. A surveillance system with remote viewing and motion triggers is one of best investments, and preventive measures, that a business so susceptible to theft could make.

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