Gyms attract more than 70 million Americans every year – coming and going at all hours of the day and night. Gyms in nicer neighborhoods or those that offer exclusive membership often attract higher income members and, along with them, the attention of those prone to committing theft, assault, and muggings. One of the best ways to deter crime in your gym is to install quality security cameras that allow you to monitor the safety of your members. Now that you’ve decided that your gym needs a camera system, here are a few tips that will help make your gym more secure.
Benefits of security cameras
The mere presence of visible cameras in your business is often enough to make a potential criminal think twice. Criminals will know that their actions will be caught on video and that footage turned over the police – increasing their chances of getting caught. You may even find that members will choose your gym over others because you are showing that you’re serious about the safety of your clients.
Security where you need it most
You’ve probably kept track of areas of security concerns or issues that you’ve experienced in the past. Maybe you’ve had guests report assaults in the parking lot or you often have people loitering in obscured areas of the lobby. You’ll want to make sure that your security consultant knows about these areas so that they can get these areas covered first during installation.
Other high priority areas may include detached buildings and other areas that are not often monitored by staff members. These areas may include buildings where off-season items are stored and storage rooms with excess equipment. Security cameras can help you keep an eye on areas without having a physical presence in every room of your gym.
Mind entrances and exits
Gyms see hundreds of people entering and exiting their doors every day. In larger gyms, keeping track of who is in your building at any given time can be a difficult task. Security cameras let you keep track of everyone who passes through your doors so that you are always aware of members that are in your building.
Keep an eye on cash
Just as in most businesses, your gym probably handles at least some cash transactions. Whether at your snack bar, vending machine, or gift shop, anywhere that cash is exchanged is a prime area for potential thefts. Cameras in these areas not only protect your gym members and staff in case of a robbery but can also help you prevent staff thefts and inventory losses.
Tips
Gyms can be hard on equipment. From tennis and basketball courts to humid pool and spa areas, you’ll want to make sure that you select the right equipment for each area. Additionally, taking extra precautions to shield cameras from potential hazards like an errant baseball can prevent a costly replacement down the road.
Avoid putting in security cameras in areas such as locker rooms, bathrooms, showers, and changing areas in order to protect the privacy of your members. Also, in many states, audio recording is illegal without the express consent of those being filmed. Sticking with non-sound recording cameras in public areas is your best bet to stay on the right side of the law and protect your guests.
Helping you protect your members
When you decide to invest in security cameras for your gym, you’re getting so much more than just monitoring capabilities. Security cameras allow you to ensure the safety of your members while also deterring criminals and keeping an eye on staff members. Whether you have a personal trainer who is slacking on the job, a loiterer who is thinking about robbing a member, or someone taking money here and there from the cash drawer, a security camera system can help you keep an eye on things even when you’re not there.
Ready to talk, but not sure exactly what to need next? The professionals at Security Camera Now offer a free one-hour site visit and consultation to review your security camera needs and give you a recommendation of camera types and placement that fit your budget. Get a quote for all of your security camera needs and schedule your free consultation today.
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