The North Carolina Stay at Home Order has resulted in more employees working from home; this means that many businesses are now empty or have fewer employees working less hours than normal. While these measures are necessary for the health and safety of our community, business owners should be especially diligent about protecting their property, which is now more susceptible to break-ins and vandalism. If your business doesn’t already have a security protocol in place, now is the time for a plan. Follow these steps to ensure your business is protected during these unprecedented times.

1. Invest in a good camera system. Installing a high-quality security camera system is probably the best way to protect your business. Security cameras often act as an immediate deterrent for burglars. You’ll be able to remotely monitor all activity on your property around the clock. Security cameras can also protect you against liability claims. Plus, many insurance companies offer a discount for businesses that have security cameras installed.


2. Install an alarm system, and check it regularly to be sure it’s armed and working. If you give anyone else permission to enter your building, be sure they have the code to deactivate and reset the alarm. A good alarm system will offer remote access control, so you can allow employees and visitors who need to go onsite access through the use of key fobs, scan cards, fingerprint, or code. You can be in control of who’s allowed on your property, and where they can go while they’re there — even if you have multiple locations.


3. Install a good fire alarm system. Get a system that offers local UL monitoring 24/7 for the best protection. A comprehensive fire alarm system will include installation and monitoring, fire system design, sprinkler monitoring, fire inspections, and emergency call station monitoring through a local company.


4. Check on your property as often as you can. You or a trusted employee should visit your property several times a week or even once a day if possible. Take a walk around the buildings, and check windows and doors to make sure they’re locked and are sound, with no cracks. Pick up trash and debris; property that looks abandoned is a target for break-ins. Check to make sure all motion lights are working. Then take a look inside, making sure that everything is in working order.


5. If you have to have work done on site, such as landscaping, repairs, or maintenance, try to be present for it. Hire a reputable company that is bonded and insured, and when they’re done, make sure you have reset all alarms.

Southern Alarm offers many commercial security options to meet your needs and budget. Call us to set up a free, no obligation survey and estimate for your business!