Whether it's the week-long escape to the lake house, the family trip to Disney World or the couple's retreat to Europe – the summer time is when most people go into vacation mode. And while security officials and business owners are included in this category, it does present a challenge on how to safeguard their assets while they're away.
Whether it's the week-long escape to the lake house, the family trip to Disney World or the couple's retreat to Europe – the summer time is when most people go into vacation mode. And while security officials and business owners are included in this category, it does present a challenge on how to safeguard their assets while they're away.
A lot of small businesses do not have an around-the-clock security team that can fill in for each other, when somebody is out of town. Many times, the business owner is the sole person operating the security and surveillance of the store or warehouse or institution. Leave your business unprotected and you are putting your assets at risk and making your company vulnerable to external and internal theft. According to studies conducted by the FBI, crime rates go up between 6-16 percent from June to August.
There are several security measures a business can take to protect its assets in the event of a long absence like a summer vacation. We came up with three mandatory electronic precautions you should have in place before you take off on your trip.
Mobile access
It is not only a good idea to have a HD CCTV system that can clearly monitor the most pivotal areas at your business (like inventory and the POS), but you should also have access to live and recorded footage remotely. It is a way to also oversee the activity of employees and customers. Nobody wants to deal with work situations while on vacation. But it will give you piece of mind knowing that you can monitor any incident that may occur as well as check in from time to time - no matter where in the world you are. Nowadays, there are mobile apps designed to integrate with your security system that gives you the capabilities to not only pull up live or recorded footage, but also lock doors, control your lighting and alarm system.
Set up alerts
On top of having mobile access, you should also set up electronic triggers that alert you when certain situations occur. A lot of surveillance camera software have motion-detection features. Other general security platforms can email or text you whenever a private room is accessed or whenever doors are unlocked or when the alarm is disabled.
Account for all assets
Whether you leave your business to go travel for three weeks or not, you should always have access to your sales and inventory. If you own a retail store, all POS transactions should be conducted through an electronic cash register. You should also have electronic tracking for all of your inventory and be able to view that remotely as well. Make sure your system is always secure, that you have installed a strong firewall and know and trust all of the people who have access to both your financial records and your security system. Also, change your passwords monthly.
When it comes down to it, technology is your most reliable tool to protect your business assets while you are on vacation. Of course, assigning ownership to a trusted employee helps, but as a business owner or manager of security, it is a tremendous benefit to still have control of your entire operation from your smartphone. It's that extra piece of mind that helps you do what you went on vacation for in the first place. To relax.