Monday, January 10, 2011

Hotel Security for 2012...


In today’s hospitality environment, Video surveillance is the perfect security solution for hotels, motels, resorts and other types of paid lodging. Many hoteliers however are still reluctant to incorporate updated security platforms at their properties since they have not made loss prevention the priority it should be and in some cases perceive the lack of contribution to profit as one of the major reasons why security is often seen almost as an afterthought.

But with the demand for hotel rooms and space constantly increasing with an improving economy, the security of guests, hotel property and employees has become more important than ever. A carefully planned DVR system of security cameras as provided by hotel specialists like Digital Vision CCTV can help secure your hotel or resort and give your guests the peace of mind they deserve.

How Hotel Video Surveillance can be Beneficial

  • Security – Video surveillance can help keep your guests safe from theft and other criminals by helping you track your visitors and prevent break-ins on your property.
  • Prevent theft – Security cameras can help keep intruders out of exclusive hotel areas like swimming pools and gyms, where theft is common. A surveillance system in your store room, kitchen, cooler area, bar and other maintenance areas can uncover & curtail potential employee theft.
  • Remain competitive – Along with providing security, a professional video surveillance system gives your guests peace of mind while staying at your hotel, and can help you increase your return business and remain competitive in an aggressive market.
  • Flexible – Modern security cameras are easy to install and can be adjusted at anytime to fit your needs. Digital, analog & IP CCTV cameras can be integrated on today’s latest “Hybrid” DVR platforms for specific interior & exterior viewing.  
  • Remote monitoring – Adding a DVR or NVR (Network Video Recorder) to your security camera system gives you the ability to broadcast your surveillance footage over the internet. This breakthrough in surveillance technology allows you to monitor any of your cameras at any time from any internet connection, giving you instant security updates when you are not on site.
  • Investment & return - Your investment in Loss Prevention will NOT raise your cost in doing business- a one-time investment in Loss Prevention and theft prevention measures will continuously pay back in reduced loss. It will dramatically reduce shrinkage and improve employee productivity & provide liability protection from employees’ claims & guest accidents. By Implementing various Loss Prevention techniques including CCTV are designed to bring about awareness and to educate, and ultimately impact you’re bottom-line.

Potential Uses of Hotel Security Cameras

  • Privacy – Protect the privacy of your guests and employees by keeping your surveillance cameras in public places like lobbies, restaurants, pool and spa areas, and meeting areas, and out of guest rooms and break rooms.
  • Maximize Coverage– Cameras, especially when they are outdoors or placed at entry and exit points of the hotel property can be best used to track activity at its perimeter points. Elevator lobbies and stairwells are also great locations to position CCTV cameras for maximum protection.
  • CCTV Cameras with Audio- Can be used at front desk areas to monitor employee & guest interaction for improved customer service.
Questions to Consider When Configuring Lodging Security Cameras
Your hotel or resort's specific security needs depend on many factors. Digital Vision CCTV can help based on their experience in dealing with numerous hotel projects and offer insight for the setting up of the proper solution at your property. Consider each of the following when you are purchasing and configuring your surveillance system:
  • Where do you experience the most thefts or problems?
  • Have you ever wished that you caught something on camera?
  • How do you currently manage security at your hotel?
  • Do you feel like your surrounding area contributes to your overall security?
  • How would you describe your average guest?
    • Business travelers
    • Leisure travelers
    • Families
  • How is your hotel or resort laid out?
    • Single building housing guest rooms, amenities like pool and spa, and facilities.
    • Several buildings spread out over a large property
  • Have you ever had issues with employee theft?

Setup advice for Inn, Bed and Breakfast and Resort CCTV Systems

  • Place cameras in or near entrances and exits so you get a clear picture of each guest or visitor.
  • Cameras in open areas like lobbies, pools, and meeting rooms can help prevent petty theft & monitor traffic flow.
  • For valuable items like safes and artwork, fixed cameras near the object can help prevent theft.
  • Cameras placed around your hotel's perimeter can help secure your building and facilities in dangerous neighborhoods.
                                                                    Source data provided by: