Commercial properties are vulnerable to many different hazards, from safety concerns to theft. One of the best investments that you can make to protect your business is to have surveillance cameras installed throughout the property. However, installing surveillance cameras isn't as simple as just putting them anywhere. Here's a look at what you need to know and think about when you're getting ready to implement property-wide surveillance.

Why Camera Placement Is Important

You might wonder why you can't just put the cameras up anywhere and work with what they capture. The fact is that proper security and protection requires some careful planning to ensure adequate coverage.

You'll want to focus on the areas that are most vulnerable first, especially if you have a budget and can only install a certain number of cameras. Proper placement will help you to combat theft, vandalism, and all sorts of other hazards. 

Another key factor of camera placement is visibility. It sounds like a cliche, but the truth is that visible security cameras truly are a deterrent to crimes of all sorts. When people know that their actions may be recorded, they are less likely to steal or commit other crimes. Make sure you consider the visibility of your cameras, at least in the main areas, when you're mapping out your placement plan. 

Considering Coverage In Placement

Once you understand why your surveillance camera placement is important, you then need to start thinking about the mechanics of that installation. Work with a surveillance camera installation contractor to map out the best positions for each of your cameras.

You'll want to cover all of your common areas, work areas, inventory storage, loading docks, and even your parking lots and storefronts. Remember that each camera is going to have a limited range of visibility, so you need to map things out carefully to avoid blind spots. Have your contractor help you plot out installation locations that allow for at least a little bit of overlap in each camera's field of vision. Careful planning reduces your company's vulnerability and lets you get the most out of your installation.

Addressing Equipment Protection

Covering your parking lots, entryways, and loading docks will often mean installing surveillance cameras outside. That means you need to consider how you will protect that equipment from the weather. This usually means selecting cameras with weather-proof enclosures and installing protective coverings above the installation location to help shield some of the weather from affecting the cameras. That way, you get clear pictures without rain or other weather affecting the lens.

For more information, contact a company like Enhanced Telecommunications and Data.