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When many people hear the term “mobile surveillance systems,” they might wonder if it refers to Big Brother surveilling your mobile devices. In fact, it’s something much less sinister: Mobile surveillance systems are networked security systems, usually cameras, that are not mounted in fixed positions but instead can be easily moved from place to place.
The “mobile” in mobile surveillance refers to this relative portability. Typically, a mobile camera is pole-mounted to a sled or trailer that can be repositioned around a parking lot. The “surveillance” part typically refers to AI-enabled security cameras that track what’s happening in and around your place of business.
Let’s look further into mobile surveillance as a tool to protect your customers and your business.
Understanding Mobile Video Surveillance
A mobile surveillance system is usually made up of HD video cameras that track any outdoor or indoor activity at your business. It’s often a less expensive option over hiring 24/7 onsite security guards, but it’s also a good compliment to a guard service. Unlike outdated CCTV systems that used an analog signal, today’s mobile video surveillance tools are much more intelligent and high-tech. When the cameras detect a strange presence, they start capturing crystal-clear HD images. They also send streams of information through a Wi-Fi signal (or even 4G) and into the cloud 24/7/365.
It’s the versatility of mobile surveillance coupled with the technology that makes it so effective today. A fixed surveillance system uses a lot of wiring and cabling, anchoring the equipment to one location. Mobile cameras can move as needed and can connect wirelessly through the cell phone network to the internet. Instead of using a bulky DVR to store surveillance footage, the data is uploaded securely to the cloud.
You’re probably thinking, “If the system can move easily, can’t an intruder just move or break the camera so it isn’t monitoring the right spot?” The answer to this is no. If a camera starts moving, the AI alerts a remote virtual guard to assess the situation. And all cameras have frequent health monitoring that also alerts a guard when a camera gets damaged or goes offline.
That makes these tools incredibly proactive. You don’t need to watch security footage of a crime after the attack. Our security team is equipped to spot problems in real-time as they’re occurring.
Some of the best features of these tools include:
Using Mobile Surveillance at a Construction Business
Rapid deployment pole cameras work well for everything from public events to commercial and residential construction. While an unarmed security guard can cost $15 or $20 per hour, these units are just as effective at spotting problems for less cost.
Speaking of cost, the latest data says construction job site theft costs the construction industry up to $1 billion annually. This theft comes from both external and internal threats, including from employees.
Without security in the form of lighting, barriers, physical patrols, and video surveillance, a construction site becomes a target. However, these sites are by nature not permanent, so construction firms need a mobile approach for their security strategies.
That’s where mobile surveillance systems can help. These crime-deterrent video tools can protect construction assets from vandals, thieves, and trespassers, or any other type of criminal activity. The construction site doesn’t need a stable structure to attach cameras to, permanent electricity, or even Wi-Fi to benefit from a mobile surveillance system.
While traditional security cameras see the crime but can do nothing, today’s mobile cameras are proactive and engaging. For example:
Artificial intelligence software can detect a trespasser and text an alert. The virtual guard on duty can zoom the camera in on the intruders. Night vision detection can help them see what’s happening. The security team can even use the audio feature to speak to the person on the other side of the camera or sound off alarms and turn on bright lights, all while recording.
Multifamily home developments offer a unique target for theft of wiring or metals, appliances, tools, materials, and more. Mobile surveillance can follow the construction progress, moving with the workers and keeping a project profitable. Solar video surveillance trailers can be set up in minutes. Camera monitoring services can ensure they remain tamper-free when the hardhats go home for the evening.
Using Mobile Surveillance on Oil Fields
Beyond construction, oil and gas facilities can also make use of mobile surveillance. These remote locations often experience extremes of weather and temperature. But weather-hardened mobile video surveillance tools can handle tough conditions.
Using Mobile Surveillance for any Business
You can also make use of ultra-low light and audio tracking as well as intelligent video analytics, thermal cameras, and even license plate detection. Mobile surveillance has so many applications, from large public gatherings to parking lots, auto dealerships, public housing complexes, malls, and so much more — yet is less costly than you may have imagined.
Contact us to learn how we can make your security more mobile than ever before.
