4 Ways To Improve COVID-19 Retail Security

September 22nd, 2020



Unfortunately, the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the world has dramatically changed life everywhere. It's meant some significant changes for many businesses, including retail ones. However, as life slowly transitions into a new kind of normal, there are still many security considerations to keep in mind.

Security cameras, for example, are an effective means for crime prevention but now there are new factors to consider as well. It's not just enough to have conventional security measures in place; for the safest possible environment, some COVID-19 security measures can help too. Here are a few of the things you can do to have a safer business both against crime and COVID-19.

Thermal Cameras

It's a high tech solution, but it's also one that's proving useful in high traffic areas, such as airports. One of the chief symptoms of COVID-19 is a fever. People who run fevers give off more heat than usual, and this is something that can readily be detected by thermal cameras.

Of course, it's important to remember someone running a high body temperature isn't necessarily confirmed to have COVID-19, since jogging, or any other strenuous exercise, for example, can achieve the same effect. However, this provides additional information on which to act.

Reduce Merchandise Handling

This is always a good security measure, to begin with, but in the era of COVID-19, it can sometimes mean the difference between health and disease transmission. The COVID-19 virus is transmitted through moisture droplets, including sweat.

If someone is infected and touches a lot of the merchandise, there is a chance of the live virus remaining on that merchandise, endangering staff, and other customers.

Manage Customer Traffic

This is another strategy that is essential to adequate security but has now become even more critical in the pandemic period. Shoplifting and other theft are much easier to do in a crowded—or better yet, overcrowded—space.

However, in a less crowded space, shoplifting is much more challenging to achieve, especially with security cameras monitoring. Now, with every customer being potentially infected with COVID-19, retail areas mustn't be crowded. Ignoring social distancing both increases the risk of crime and infection.

Cybersecurity

For many businesses, it's possible to move some transactions online, but this brings its own risks. Cybersecurity is a significant issue because an online purchase means customers surrendering confidential financial information, such as bank accounts, credit card numbers, and other important consumer data.

Ensure that firewalls are up to date, password access to your network uses "strong" passwords that can't be easily guessed, and that you and your employees ignore "social engineering" attempts to get through the security "back door." The use of a "free" USB stick, for example, may embed a virus in a system that is otherwise inaccessible online.

If you have a business and you want a more secure retail or commercial property, we can help. Just contact us and let us know what kind of security arrangements you're concerned with. We can assess your situation and provide an action plan to get you there.

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D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

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John M.

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Tieka and Don S.

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Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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