How to Improve Security in Your Business’ Parking Lot

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

Between drivers admitting to being distracted while navigating parking lots and an 11% increase in car theft nationally, parking lot security at your business should be top of mind. Help your employees and customers feel safe and comfortable coming and going from your business by taking measures to reduce the risk of accidents and the threat of criminal activity on your property. Here are some simple tips for improving your business’ parking lot security.

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An image of an employee using an access control system, which can help reduce internal theft

Three Simple Ways to Prevent Internal Theft in Retail

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

An image of an employee using an access control system, which can help reduce internal theftThe National Retail Federation reported that theft, fraud, and other forms of retail shrink equated to nearly $62 billion in losses in 2019. While thefts from burglaries, shoplifting, and payment fraud make up most of this, internal theft contributes significantly to losses. 

Internal theft comes in many forms, including time theft, cash skimming, stealing merchandise, or offering unauthorized discounts to family and friends. The NRF’s 2019 Security Study revealed that each dishonest employee represents an average of $1,264.10 in losses. 

With that in mind, here are a few ways you can adjust your loss prevention strategy to protect against internal theft.

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An image of a bank building exterior, relating to a theme of bank security

Three Top Bank Security Challenges and How to Overcome Them

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

An image of a bank building exterior, relating to a theme of bank securityBanks are responsible for protecting precious financial and physical assets for their customers. What may seem like a straightforward task can be complicated by complex system requirements, outdated technology, and evolving needs. Here are some of the top bank security challenges and how to solve them.

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Image of empty commercial office space, suggesting importance of commercial office security

Three Commercial Office Security Considerations

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

Image of empty commercial office space, suggesting importance of commercial office securityMoving into your first commercial office space is a monumental step and a testament to the growth of your business, but it comes with a new level of responsibility. Challenges like a growing number of employees, a more complex floor plan, and new property maintenance responsibilities will all influence your approach to security in this new space. Here are some top commercial office security considerations as you move into your new office.

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Shoveling show in front of a business, winter safety tips

Winter Safety: How to Fortify Your Business for Low Temperatures

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

Temperature fluctuations and extreme weather can affect your business in various ways. Slippery conditions can lead to slip and fall incidents, and inclement weather could prevent your employees or customers from reaching your premises. Extreme cold may cause power outages, burst pipes, and other maintenance issues that could affect your property and inventory. Here are our top winter safety tips for fortifying your business against the challenges brought on by low temperatures.

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An image of banking ATM machines, suggesting a theme of bank security

Four Lesser-Known Bank Security Considerations

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

An image of banking ATM machines, suggesting a theme of bank security

While features like access control, surveillance, and emergency response protocols are likely the first things that come to mind when you think of bank security, there are many nuances to an effective system. Using the latest technology can fortify and streamline security systems in financial institutions, making it easier to stay proactive against security threats. Here are some less-obvious bank security considerations.

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Preparing for Smash-And-Grab Burglaries

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

A recent increase in instances of smash-and-grab burglaries throughout New England has resulted in thousands of dollars worth of stolen merchandise and property damage. If you sell high-value items, these unfortunate events serve as a reminder to audit your existing security system. 

The most effective security strategies incorporate elements that prevent, limit the impact, and assist in the aftermath of a robbery. Here are our suggestions for preparing your business for smash-and-grabs. Read more →

An image of someone shoveling snow, part of snow and ice removal

Preventing False Injury Claims with Video Monitoring

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

An image of someone shoveling snow, part of snow and ice removalNortheast winters bring snow and ice and with it many hazards. According to Massachusetts law, residential and commercial property owners may be held liable for injuries related to snow and ice on their property. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to lower the likelihood of winter-related accidents. To prevent false injury claims, couple these actions with a video surveillance system so you can verify that the appropriate steps were taken.  Read more →

A shoplifter engaging in retail theft

Four Common Crimes Retailers Face

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

According to the National Retail Federation, retail theft and fraud amounted to 1.62% of sales in 2019 and about $61.7 billion in losses. While these numbers are daunting, there are simple steps you can take to reduce theft in your business. Keep these common retail crimes in mind as you devise a loss prevention plan for your business.

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Two people discussing a business security CCTV project. Video security equipment and blueprint on a table.

The Importance of a Commercial Security Needs Analysis

/by American Alarm Blogging Team

Two people discussing a business security CCTV project. Video security equipment and blueprint on a table.There are an average of over 400,000 commercial burglaries each year. For some business owners, this information is enough to convince them it’s time to install a commercial surveillance system on their property to boost their business security.

However, according to David Oles, Integrated Systems Consultant for American Alarm, a surveillance system all on its own won’t bring business owners the security they’re after. “[Business owners] think they need to install cameras for security to catch people when they break in, but that’s not [always] the right solution.”

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