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Security Tips

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COMMON SECURITY THREATS A SECURITY GUARD COMPANY CAN PROTECT YOU FROM

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When it comes to protection against security breaches, what many businesses require vary from one business to another. Some businesses require protection from cyber- scam whist other businesses require protection from burglaries. With that being said, there is actually something all of these businesses have in common and that is the fact that every comapny shoudl consider the services of a professional local SIA security guard company.  So if you’ve got security issues with your retail store and requite SIA Security Guards in London contact Close Circuit who will be able to assist with your requirements.

  • BURGLARY AND BREAK-INS

Have you got a store that hasn’t been immune to break-ins? Has your residential building been attacked before? Look no further as Close Circuit security guard company will not only stabilize your business/events/home but will also protect you from this threat.

  • MENACING VANDALISM

Willful damage or defacement of property belonging to another person or public often seems like a harmless act in comparison to other criminal offenses. Well, the loss of value caused by this act is as costly as other property crimes. However, a professional security guard company can make this stop! If you hire one right away, you will no longer need to deal with these issues.

  • VIOLENCE AND ASSAULTS

One of the major reasons why you should consider hiring a professional London Security guard company is so that they can protect your business or homes from violent acts. These acts and conditions can be tricky sometimes and if not properly managed can lead to loss of property value, damages and sometimes loss of life. These security guards have the knowledge of identifying and handling these threats.

  • PERPETUAL LOITERING

As innocent as it may seem, loitering is actually not always so innocent especially when done perpetually. Individual loitering around a business, a mall, and a property might be as dangerous as any crime you may think of. Yes, you heard that right! When you hire a security guard company, they provide you with guards that are trained and capable of noticing repeated loitering from an individual and group of individuals. This way, you can be certain that any threat posed to your establishment or property will be swiftly dealt with before it escalates into any form of losses for you.

  • ACTS OF THEFT

Generally speaking, this is often associated with theft of merchandises or shoplifting. But is that all? No way! Different kinds of thefts can also affect properties and even the customers visiting your store. When you hire an assured security guard company, this will cease to happen because of how much security insurance they will bring to your property. These guards will offer the best casual security services in London to not just secure your premises and the customers but also to reflect a sense of comfort and assurance people desire.

door security lock by tim lee on flickr

Home Alone: Making Sure You’re Safe as Possible

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People tend to feel most safe when they’re at home, but being alone, even in your own home, can leave you more vulnerable than you would think.

 

When you’re at home, you have a sense of security and peace of mind knowing that any harm or wrongdoing that could come your way is outside of your four walls. And a major step in making sure that your safety is maintained, is the personal security measures you carry out on a daily basis.

 

There’s no doubt that being at home is a lot safer than being outdoors, but that isn’t to say that being at home, especially while you’re alone, is risk-free. Here are a few tips to make sure you’re as safe as possible while at home alone. And although it’s a good idea to improve your knowledge of personal security, unfortunately, this list doesn’t include any Home Alone-style booby traps.

 

Lock Your Doors

This may sound like the most obvious home security advice ever, but locking your doors (and windows) is really, really easy to forget. A locked door is the difference between a trouble-free night’s sleep and a burglar who can’t believe their luck.

 

Locking your doors behind you once inside may seem like an unnecessary measure, especially during the daytime, but doing so will protect you from any burglars trying their luck with an unlocked door. You should also be locking any windows that are on the ground floor or that could easily be accessed.

 

Get to Know the Neighbours

 

Getting to know your neighbours may not be at the top of your to-do list, or on it at all, but doing so will provide you with another set of eyes and ears if any safety issues should occur.

 

This doesn’t mean you have to invite them over for a dinner party or set up a neighbourhood watch meeting (complete with badges and whistles). But a simple introduction will give you the peace of mind knowing that there’s someone next door who’s aware of you being home alone and who will be available in time of need.

 

The emergency services or security firms will obviously be your go-to solution for any security concerns, but having neighbours who share your concerns and act accordingly will help to maintain a safer community.

 

Put a Spare Key Somewhere Smart

There are various reasons why you need a spare key somewhere safe and accessible. An example being if you’ve had an accident or medical emergency at home and someone needs to get inside to help you. In this circumstance, it’s a good idea to leave a spare key with a family member or neighbour.

 

Leaving a key with a neighbour is also an ideal solution if you’ve lost your key. It’s much better than opting for the “fake rock”犀利士
 key holder or hiding it under the doormat. Both well-known methods leave your key vulnerable to being found by an intruder, instantly giving them access to your home.

 

Alarm Systems & Security Companies

 

If you live in an area that has previously had break-ins or damage to homes, then it may be worth getting an alarm system installed. The alarm not only alerts you any intruders or damage to your home but it also acts as a major deterrent for anyone attempting to gain entry.

 

A deterrent is of particular importance for anyone who’s home alone as it helps to prevent any situation where you are confronted by intruders. And in the worst case scenario where an intruder does manage to get inside, an alarm not only alerts you to their presence, but it also gives emergency services or a security company time and awareness for appropriate action.

 

Motion Detecting Outdoor Lights

 

Motion detecting lights are perfect for the outside of your home if the area isn’t lit up especially well. Although the main culprit they tend to illuminate is the occasional wandering cat, in instances where someone is trying to damage or gain access to your home, the intruder will be lit up before they can get close enough to do so. Not only will it alert you to their presence, but it also acts as a deterrent.

 

“Motion detecting” may sound like a high tech expensive gadget, yet this type of light is now very common and therefore available for reasonable prices.

 

For some people being home alone is an everyday occurrence where they have no concerns for their safety while doing so. For others, it can to be the situation in which they feel most vulnerable. No matter how comfortable and secure you feel while home alone, it’s vital to make sure you’re taking the right steps to ensure your own safety. The tips above are simple yet effective ways to improve the overall safety of your home, especially when you’re on you own.

 

Here at Close Circuit, we have an experienced and knowledgeable team. If you want to know more about the high-quality security services we offer, or if you want some advice about any security concerns, then don’t hesitate to contact us via 0203 246 0094 or email: office@closecircuit.snobmonkey.com

 

Image via Tim Lee / Flickr

beware of pickpockets sign

Don’t Make Yourself a Target: 5 Personal Security Tips to Remember

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Personal security may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many times, without knowing it, you’re making yourself an easy target.

 

Whether you’re at home, work, out in public, or even on holiday, you should always do your utmost to make sure you and any companions are as safe as possible. Sounds like obvious advice, doesn’t it? But you’d be surprised how many times you can make yourself a target for muggers and pickpockets without realising you’ve done so.

 

Here are a few tips that will help you to be more aware of potentially dangerous situations, but also how they can easily be avoided.

 

1. Venturing Outside in the Evening

 

It makes sense to start with this as it’s probably the most obvious and common piece of safety advice you’ll receive. “Be careful if you’re out and about in the evening”. It’s far too easy to get into the routine of walking home alone at night, and it’s even easier to become naive to the dangers of doing so.

 

If possible, try to walk at night with a friend but, failing that, make sure that someone knows where you’re going. Plan the route you’ll take and stick to well-lit areas. Avoid shortcuts (such as alleys or pathways) and walk to your destination as quickly and confidently as possible. Also, be sure you take your phone just in case you get into any trouble.

 

2. Walking in Crowds

 

A large crowd, for example during rush hour or a big event, may seem like the safest place you could be, but this environment is a pickpocket’s playground. The packed-in hustle and bustle of a crowd is the perfect cover for someone to gain access to your belongings, leaving you none the wiser.

 

This is a very common occurrence at events or festivals, especially in the major cities where the crowd is going to be much larger. Security firms in London are busy all year-round with the abundance of events that go on there, a prime example being Notting Hill Carnival that draws an enormous crowd.   

 

And although there will be security companies on-hand at large events, their primary concern is to prevent any trouble or immediate danger on a grander scale, so it’s all the more important that you do everything possible to maintain your own personal security.    

 

Ideally, you want to have expensive/valuable belongings such as a phone or wallet in your front pockets. That way, they’ll be easier to keep an eye on but, more importantly, harder for anyone to get hold of. If you’re wearing a backpack or carrying a handbag, keeping essential items at the bottom of the bag will make it harder for thieves to gain access to them without you noticing.

 

3. Brandishing Expensive or Flashy Items in Public

 

If you’re walking along with your brand-new phone out, wearing that expensive watch you’ve been waiting to show off, or strutting your stuff with a new designer handbag loosely hanging from your arm, then you’re ticking all the boxes for any thief who happens to set their eyes on you. This is especially important if you’re on holiday as you’re more likely to be carrying more money and expensive items such as cameras.

 

That’s not to say that you shouldn’t bring these items out in public, but make sure you’re aware of your surroundings when you do so. Strolling along at night time while staring at your phone isn’t the greatest idea. Not only does this show off the fact that you’re carrying a phone, one that shines a light on your face and draws attention to you, but it also tells potential thieves that you’re not paying attention to what’s going on around you.

 

4. Belongings Can Be Replaced

 

If you find yourself in a situation where someone is confronting you with the intention of stealing your personal belongings, then the instinctive reaction might be to resist and protect what is yours. However, this can make the situation more heated and potentially violent.

 

If this should ever happen to you, just consider how much those belongings are worth to you in the grand scheme of things. Is it worth more than your well being? Your personal security should always be the priority.

 

5. If Something Feels Wrong Just Leave

 

When you find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation, or when something doesn’t feel right, you should always listen to your instinct and react accordingly. Whether it’s your surroundings or a particular individual who’s making you feel uncomfortable, there’s nothing wrong with just leaving.

 

Who’s to say whether you’re right or wrong? Still, your instincts are there for a reason. Listening to them will not only give you peace of mind, but it could help you to avoid situations you’d rather not be in.

 

Keeping yourself safe is paramount, and you’ll often find yourself in situations where personal security is vital to doing so. All of the above aren’t special security techniques and don’t require special training. All you need is a bit of common sense and awareness with regards to your surroundings and everyday safety.

 

犀利士
pan style=”font-weight: 400;”>Here at Close Circuit we offer a variety of different high-quality security services. If you have any security needs or want to enquire about the services we provide, then don’t hesitate to contact us on 0203 246 0094 or via email: office@closecircuit.snobmonkey.com

 

Image via Nick Sherman / Flickr

Rainy Weather, Glastonbury Festival 2014

What Security Measures are Needed to Keep a Festival Safe?

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Festivals are continuing to grow both in size and popularity. With a larger number of people attending it’s essential to have the right security measures in place.

 

Festivals are a massive draw for people of all ages, and the potential audience for any single event is huge. Big name festivals such as Glastonbury continue to bring in huge crowds, and independent festivals are becoming more common. A big crowd is always difficult to keep in order, but adding drugs and alcohol into the mix will provide a whole new challenge.

 

To keep a festival safe it’s vital that certain security measures are put in place, and here are some that should be at the top of the list.

 

Front of House Security

 

Festivals tend to have one main entrance, and it’s where security should begin, as well as allow the staff to set the tone for how security will be handled for the entirety of the event.

 

Every festival is different and has specific rules in place about bringing alcohol onto the site etc. All security staff at the entrance need to be aware of these rules, and whether or not it’s necessary to carry out searches.

 

By preempting potential trouble at the front gate, and either turning certain attendees away or confiscating any items they shouldn’t have, security staff can massively reduce the chances of a security breach.

 

Perimeter Fencing

 

Festivals tend to be pretty big, and in some cases enormous, so without an established perimeter security will be in for a bit of a nightmare.

 

Most festivals have an entrance fee or tickets, and some of the bigger name ones aren’t cheap, so not having a fence is asking for trouble. From a security point of view, it’s crucial to have a fence that is sufficient to stop people climbing over with ease. By doing so, it means that attendees will have to go through designated entrances where there will be security staff posted.

 

Without fencing attendees will be able to avoid security altogether, bringing with them any drugs, alcohol and dangerous weapons they want.

 

Static and Patrolling Security

 

At a festival, there’s a lot going on at all times, and security will need to try to keep an eye on as many areas all the time. This may sound like an impossible task, but by having security placed in specific areas, as well as patrolling it gives you a better chance of securing the entire area.

 

There’s likely to be several tents, bars and stage areas, so it’s a good idea to have security in places that you think will require constant attention. Static security at events will also act as a deterrent to any trouble-makers in these areas, with eyes on the crowd at all times there’s less chance of trouble.

 

Patrolling security is ideal for both inside and outside of the event, the outside of the fence will need a patrol to keep an eye out for any trespassers or people jumping over. Then a patrol in and around the event will be sufficient to keep an eye on the less populated areas where there may not be static security.

 

On-Site Medical Services

 

To keep any event or festival safe, it’s vital that there is on-site medical services, or at least staff members who are medically trained. With such a large number of people attending festivals, many of which who are drinking alcohol, there’s always a risk of the occasional medical emergency.

 

When you hear security, you tend to think of security guards, but medical staff are a huge part of maintaining the safety of events. You never know when attendees or staff members may be in need, and having the right resources on-site could potentially save lives.

 

Festivals never fail to attract a massive crowd, with so many people in one place the need for efficient security is a top priority. To make any event as safe as possible there need to be the right security measures put in place, the list above are imperative and required at any festival.

If you need information about our services and what we can do for you in regards to event security, or have any other enquiries then don’t hesitate to contact us via 0203 246 0094 or email us at office@closecircuit.snobmonkey.com.

 

Image via Paul Townsend / Flickr

professional event security personnel

5 Ways to Improve the Security of Your Business’s Event

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No matter how well you plan ahead, there is always the potential for trouble or hazards at an event. This is why security is essential.

 

As the owner of a business, holding events or conferences can be extremely beneficial. Whether your goal is to draw in new customers, promote a new product or simply to get your company’s name out there. Planning ahead will be important to prevent anything going wrong, and one of the most crucial things you need to consider is security.

 

Here are a few ways you can improve the security of your business’s event.

Hire Professionals

 

The phrase “if you want something done properly, do it yourself” definitely doesn’t apply here. When it comes to maintaining the safety of your attendees, staff and also your reputation, you’re going to want to call in a security company.

 

Professional security staff will have the experience and knowledge to prevent and handle any situations that could cause alarm at your event, as well as being helpful and approachable for any attendee or staff member in need.

 

Planning an event will require a lot of your time and effort, so the last thing you need is to be worried that your security isn’t going to be efficient. Hiring security services will give you the peace of mind knowing that it’s in the hands of the pros.

 

All Entrances and Exits Should Be Monitored

 

If your event requires a ticket or fee to get in then, it’s essential to have security on the door to keep things in order; that’s a no-brainer. Even if you’re holding an open event it’s a good idea to have the entrances and exits manned; your security needs to start from the front door.

 

As the person holding the event you’ll know exactly who should be entering and who shouldn’t be.

 

Know the Layout

 

Whether your event is in one room, an entire building or a large outdoor site – it’s vital for you and your staff to familiarise yourself with the layout. Knowing where the fire exits are is always a top priority. Make sure staff are aware of these locations so they can escort people to safety as quick as possible.

 

Your location may have areas that are off limits to the public. Whether someone is trespassing or has just wandered off in the wrong direction – boundaries should be maintained.

 

Make Staff Easy to Identify

 

At events where there’s going to be a significant amount of attendees, it will be worthwhile to make sure your staff members are easy to identify, from a security point of view this will make it simpler to spot people who are in places they shouldn’t be. It also makes it easier for attendees to recognise members of staff if they require any assistance.

 

There are a few different ways you could make it easier to identify employees, for example, name badges and lanyards are two of the most common types of ID at events, and also are cheap to produce.

 

Communication is Key

 

Keeping in contact is a vital part of security, especially at events where there will be lots going on and plenty of people to keep an eye on. If you’re working with a large area, or multiple floors of building it will be impossible to maintain face-to-face contact.

 

In this type of situation walkie talkies will be a massive help to make sure your security can work more efficiently as a unit, if there are any security risks or other incidents, then it will be easy to get some assistance.

 

No matter how big your event is, you will want to treat security as a top priority and make sure that it’s handled properly. You want your business event to run as smoothly as possible, and the chances are that it will, but that one time you decide that security isn’t necessary is when you’re bound to have issues. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

 

If you want some information about our services and what we can do for you in regards to event security, or have any other enquiries then don’t hesitate to contact us via 0203 246 0094 or email us at office@closecircuit.snobmonkey.com.

close circuit retail security checking a man's bag

Has the Digital Era Made Business Owners Less Concerned About Physical Security?

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There’s no doubt that cybersecurity is a growing concern, but with such a large emphasis on keeping data safe, has physical security become less of a concern to business owners?

 

We’re currently in the digital era where technology continues to evolve and become more influential in the way we do things. Nearly every industry you can think of has become more efficient due to the breakthroughs of modern tech, and many industries wouldn’t exist at all without it. Cybercrime is becoming more and more of a threat to businesses, and with so much focus on preventing it, physical security may be becoming a secondary concern to business owners.

 

Physical Security Should Still Be a Priority

 

There’s no doubt that cybersecurity is something that all businesses should be taking seriously, but it becomes less of a concern if your poor physical security allowed intruders to break in and steal your computers.

 

Without a secure business property, you will be an easy target for burglary and vandalism, both of which can have massive effects on your operation. Theft of equipment will prevent you and your staff from working, and therefore cause losses in profit.

 

Vandalism to your property will be costly to repair, and depending on the severity it may prevent you from running your business until the damage is fixed.

 

Physical security doesn’t have to be expensive, and your business won’t need to be Fort Knox. Some simple additions to your property or services provided by professionals could be all you need to keep your business safe.

 

Integrating Both Types of Security

 

Both cyber and physical security have individual advantages to a business owner. There are certain types of physical-security that would be massively improved by the addition of some technology-based security.

 

An example of this is door/gate access. If a business has a database of all their employees set up and available to security guards then it not only makes it easier to monitor who is coming and going, but it also gives you a better chance of keeping out anyone who doesn’t have access.

 

If you require more advanced security then you could implement a keycard and photo ID system, the keycard would gain you access to the building and the photo ID would have to be shown to a security guard.

 

It’s often the case that companies have two separate security teams. One team of IT specialists to prevent anyone breaking through your firewall and stealing important data, and the other to prevent intruders breaking through your window and stealing your equipment. The integration of both cyber and physical security is the key to getting the most out of the advantages offered by both.

 

Protecting Your Equipment

 

Another way physical security proves to be effective when you consider computer-based aspects of your business, is the variety of ways you can set up physical defences to protect your data.

 

If your business deals with a lot of data and requires separate rooms for servers, or even if you have areas needing a higher level of security. It will give you peace of mind knowing that any areas containing expensive equipment or irreplaceable materials are secure. Whether it’s by installing a number of interior locks to make sure that each and every separate area is secure, or by placing security guards in areas you feel your business is particularly vulnerable.

 

It’s pretty safe to say that both cyber and physical security should be considered as a priority, a high-quality firewall is great, but it’s a little bit pointless if you’re poor security is basically inviting burglars to rob your premises. As technology continues to improve there are possibilities to make all types of security more effective, and therefore bridging the gap between cyber and physical security.

 

For information on the range of services we offer, or if you have an enquiries then don’t hesitate to contact us by phone on 0203 246 0094 or email: office@closecircuit.snobmonkey.com.

black security vest

6 Security Measures Every Business Should Have in Place

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As a business owner, security should be one of your top priorities, and to be successful you’ll need to have a few security measures in place.

 

Burglaries are still very common, and for businesses with on-site equipment or assets, a break-in could be devastating. Most businesses will have digital security in place, but it’s equally important to make sure you’re doing as much as possible to protect your business on a physical level. Here are some security measures that every business should have in place.

 

Get High-Quality Locks

 

First and foremost, if you haven’t invested in some high-quality locks then you’re doing burglars a massive favour. Any doors, windows and gates to need to be secured with locks that are strong enough to keep anyone out. It’s recommended that exterior gates should have a lock on both the top and bottom. This is in case an intruder manages to reach over and unlock the top one you still have a backup.

 

Establish a Perimeter

 

If your business is a relatively large property or site then it’s crucial to establish some sort of perimeter. You don’t need to build a fortress, or a castle wall and moat, but a strong perimeter is your first line of defence against any intruders.

 

Depending on the type of site you have there may well be expensive equipment on your property, so in this case you’d require a much higher level of security. Spiked metal fences would prevent anyone from climbing over the top, and be strong enough for them not to be able to cut through.

 

On Site Security

 

Having on site security is a massive benefit for a number of reasons. Firstly it will give you peace of mind knowing that your business is literally being kept an eye on by qualified professionals, and it also means you aren’t simply relying on other measures (fences etc.) to keep intruders out.

 

With on site security you can maintain your perimeter with patrolling guards. Larger sites may require guards for perimeter patrols, as well as interior guards to keep a close eye on any buildings or outside equipment.

 

If equipment, tools or any materials are left outside then they instantly become an easier target for thieves. Without the supervision of on-site security and the deterrent of their presence, you could easily become a victim of theft or vandalism.     

 

Anti-Vandal Measures

 

Although burglary is a primary security concern, vandalism is still a problem that plagues many business owners. When you consider the variety of different ways someone could vandalise property, and how expensive the outcome would be, it makes taking the right security measures all the more important.

 

Anti-vandal or ‘anti-climb’ paint is commonly used on exterior walls and buildings, this not only prevents intruders gaining access to the site altogether, but also it prevents them from climbing up onto high roofs and other dangerous areas.

 

Get Security Lights

 

The dark is an intruder’s best friend, so by installing some lights you put them at a disadvantage. Motion detecting lights will make it difficult for anyone to get close to your property without being lit up, and by installing them high up you will prevent them being damaged.

 

If you have on site security this will be a massive benefit to help them patrol the area more effectively, and make them aware of any potential security risks. Or if any damage has already occurred then they will be able to notice it sooner and contact the police.

 

Building and Gate Access Security

 

When you think of security risks that could harm犀利士
 your business, the majority will occur after hours when the property is empty. It’s important to recognise that there is plenty of potential for crime during office hours, which is why building access and gate security can be crucial.

 

By having someone on the door to monitor the comings and goings it will stop any unwanted parties gaining access, as well as act as a deterrent to potential security risks. The same can be said for gate security on larger sites, as it prevents anyone who isn’t authorised to be on the property entering, and therefore eliminates the risk of theft or damage.

 

All of the above mentioned security measures apply to a wide-range of different businesses whether it’s a large organisation or a small business, as losses caused by theft or damage have the potential to ruin a company. Putting security measures in place give you peace of mind knowing that your business is safe when you’re not around.

 

If you require any information about our services and what we can do for you, or have any other enquiries then don’t hesitate to contact us via 0203 246 0094 or email us at office@closecircuit.snobmonkey.com.