How to Improve Physical Security After Dark

In today’s world, security has become a significant concern for different organizations. With the rise of crimes like burglary, vandalism, and theft, it’s important for schools, commercial buildings, and other establishments to enhance their physical security measures to ensure the safety of their students, employees, customers, and property.

Maintaining security gets even more challenging after the sun goes down. Criminal activity is more likely to occur at night when fewer people are around. The reduced visibility also makes it harder to detect suspicious activity. Additionally, many facilities have limited resources at night – with fewer security staff available.

In this blog, we will discuss some tips on how to enhance physical security after dark.

 

Increase security lighting

One of the most effective ways to enhance physical security after dark is by using security lighting. Installing high-quality security lighting around your establishment can help deter criminals and intruders by making it more difficult for them to remain unnoticed. Security lighting can be used to illuminate different areas around your establishment, including parking lots, walkways, entrances, and exits.

Here are factors to consider when it comes to choosing security lighting:

  • Choose the right type of lighting for your needs. There are many options available, including floodlights, spotlights, and motion-activated lighting.
  • Choose lights that are bright enough to illuminate the area adequately. Lights with a brightness of at least 1000 lumens are recommended for outdoor areas.
  • Choose lights that are energy-efficient and have a long lifespan to avoid frequent replacements and increased energy consumption.

 

Install surveillance cameras with built-in Infrared LEDs

Another effective way to enhance physical security after dark is by installing infrared cameras with night vision.

Infrared cameras use infrared technology to capture clear images in low light conditions, making them ideal for use after dark. Motion detection technology can also be integrated into the cameras to alert security personnel when motion is detected in the designated areas. This can help increase response time and reduce the likelihood of crimes going unnoticed.

Today’s security cameras are also equipped with remote monitoring capabilities, which allow property owners or security personnel to monitor the property from a remote location. It allows for a more efficient use of security resources, as security personnel can monitor multiple facilities at once from a central location and respond to any detected security threats accordingly.

Here are a couple of IR cameras that will help you see more in the dark.

 

Implement access control measures

Access control systems can help restrict access to certain areas of the establishment after hours. This can help prevent unauthorized individuals from entering restricted areas, reducing the likelihood of theft and vandalism, as well as improving the safety of individuals inside the facility.

Many access control systems are equipped with real-time monitoring capabilities, which allow security personnel or property owners to monitor who is entering and exiting the facility at all times. This can help detect any potential security threats early on and allow for a quick response.

Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems can further enhance the security of the establishment. Intrusion detection systems utilize sensors and alarms to detect any unauthorized entry or suspicious activity, and can immediately alert security personnel or law enforcement. There are various types of intrusion detection systems available, such as motion detectors, glass break sensors, and perimeter alarms.

 

Establish an emergency response plan

Security personnel are an essential component of physical security after dark. If your organization has on- site security personnel for nighttime, ensure that they are properly trained and equipped to handle any potential security threats. Training should include how to identify potential threats, how to respond to incidents, and how to use any surveillance equipment or access control measures.

Some organizations opt to use a security monitoring company instead of or in addition to on-site personnel. These professionals can provide remote monitoring of the facility and respond quickly to any security incidents once a threat is detected.

When selecting a security monitoring company, consider factors such as their response time, the quality of their equipment, and their level of experience in dealing with security threats. It is important to establish clear communication channels with the security monitoring company, so that they can quickly and effectively respond to any emergencies.

 

Conduct regular security assessments

Regular security assessments can help identify any potential vulnerabilities in the establishment’s physical security after dark. Conduct assessments at regular intervals to ensure that any weaknesses are identified and addressed. These assessments can also help ensure that any new security measures are implemented effectively.

 

In conclusion, enhancing physical security after dark is crucial to ensuring the safety of people and property. The tips outlined in this blog, including increasing security lighting, installing surveillance cameras with night vision, implementing access control measures, establishing an emergency response plan, and conducting regular security assessments, can help improve physical security after dark.

By taking these steps to enhance physical security, establishments can better protect themselves against security threats and provide peace of mind for everyone involved.

Email us  executivesupport@abscosolutions.com for a consultation on your current life-safety and security master plan with a member of our executive team. You can also contact us at salessupport@abscosolutions.com or 1-800-705-1857 for any feedback, questions, or service needs.

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