If you own any kind of business, you know the importance of protecting your business, customers, employees, and property. The right type of security system is a vital part of that protection. In this article, we’re going to explore two different types of security cameras: Digital Video Recorder (DVR) and Network Video Recorder (NVR). We’ll discuss the features of each system so that you can make an informed decision about which camera system will do the best job of protecting your self-storage business.
What You and Your Customers Stand to Lose
Criminals view storage units as a relatively easy to crack, target-rich environment. This is especially true if the storage facility tries to cut corners by not installing an adequate number of security cameras. Even if they don’t find an actual treasure, thieves will happily haul away or destroy your customers’ family treasures in their quest for items to steal.
As the owner of a storage facility, you have a responsibility to do your best to protect both your facility and your customers’ property. Your rental contract may minimize your financial liability in case of a breach but it certainly won’t protect you from the bad publicity that will follow. It’s essential that you do everything you can to minimize losses.
5 Important Security Steps to Take:
- Install a secure perimeter fence and restricted-access gates.
- Require all renters to use a cylinder or disk locks. These are the most secure types of locks available.
- Limit employee access to keys of units that are in default. It’s too easy for employees to raid a unit that isn’t being monitored by a customer.
- Install enough lighting to protect your customers and discourage criminal activity. Motion sensor lights can save electricity while still providing light when and where it’s needed.
- Use a good-quality video monitoring system throughout your entire facility.
Choosing the Right Video Surveillance System
A high-quality video camera system is a critical component of your overall security package. There are two main types of cameras suitable for storage facility surveillance. We’ll describe the differences below.
Digital Video Recorder (DVR) Systems
DVR systems use analog cameras and coaxial cables. These systems offer a maximum picture resolution of 2 megapixels. This relatively low resolution isn’t ideal when it comes to capturing details of a crime or a description of the perpetrator. However, it may be superior to higher resolution cameras in low light environments.
DVR cameras are generally less expensive than NVR cameras but are more difficult to install because each camera must be connected by wire to the DVR. You’ll usually need a professional to handle the installation process.
If you already have good quality analog cameras, it’s possible to add an analog-to-IP converter to some or all of the cameras. A hybrid system that uses DVR cameras near the base and wireless NVR cameras in the more remote locations is also a good compromise.
Network Video Recorder (NVR) Systems
NVR systems use Internet Protocol (IP) cameras and Ethernet cables. They provide excellent recording quality with image resolutions of 2 to 12 megapixels and high definition picture quality of up to 4K. This level of resolution will let you pick out details such as license plate numbers, details of a suspect’s clothing, and clear, identifiable photos of a suspect.
Because they offer partially wireless connectivity, NVR systems are generally easier to set up and configure than the older DVR systems. This means your new security cameras will be up and running quickly.
Deciding on Your Needs and Budget
When shopping for an appropriate surveillance system, it’s important to start by accessing your needs and setting a budget for security upgrades.
- How many cameras will you need in order to protect your storage facility?
- Where will you put them to adequately cover the area with the smallest number of cameras possible?
- What is your budget for a video surveillance system?
- What kind of video cameras will best fit your needs and your budget?
Once you’ve decided on the type of surveillance system you need, shop around to find a company like Mobile Video Guard that offers the quality system you’re looking for. Don’t purchase such an important security product based on price alone! Also consider the company’s level of experience and expertise, how well they stand behind their products, their references, and the quality and type of customer service they offer.
A good video security system can be expensive upfront, so you’ll want to ensure that you’re getting a top-notch product that will give you years of trouble-free service. And if you ever do have a problem with it, a company that stands behind its security products is priceless! When you compare us to the rest, we’re sure you’ll choose Mobile Video Guard as your video surveillance system purveyor of choice.
You Can Depend on Mobile Video Guard
At Mobile Video Guard, our surveillance professionals will work with you to ensure that the system in which you’re investing will do the job you expect it to. We understand that a storage facility is a substantial investment and that you want to protect that investment with the best security system you can afford.
Benefits of Our Modern, Cost-Effective Remote Video Surveillance Systems:
- Each camera has 4 viewing angles that together provide 360° of coverage.
- Live monitoring of your cameras is provided from 6 PM until 6 AM. Any suspicious activity is immediately reported to the police.
- Police prioritize and respond promptly to verified video alerts.
- You won’t need to sign any long-term contracts when you work with Mobile Video Guard.
- We’ll generally have your new system up and running within a week.
- Your insurance company may offer you a discount when you show them your modern, highly effectivesecurity system.
Conclusion
A thorough, effective CCTV surveillance set-up can protect your property, employees, and customers from thieves, vandals, arsonists, and other ne’er-do-wells. It’s an investment that will pay dividends in improved customer trust and fewer customer complaints about missing or damaged property. Contact us for more information or to request a pricing guide.
