The hospitality industry thrives on positive customer experiences in their facilities. From special events such as weddings, fundraisers or celebrations to a comfortable stay in a beautiful hotel room, guests expect a level of comfort as well as security during their visit or stay.

To keep your guests safe when at your hotel or motel, consider installing a professional security system at your facility. A sound security plan along with a dependable security system gives your guests as well as your employees comfort in knowing they and their valuables are being protected.

Some of the things to consider when evaluating security systems include:

What public areas should have surveillance cameras?
In most cases, all public areas regardless of the amount of foot traffic should have at least one security camera. This would include the lobby area, bellman area, restaurant, bar, and any public entertainment area such as a pool or a casino. With closed circuit television (CCTV) security cameras authorized hotel staff can monitor these areas and watch for suspicious activities. Also the footage can be reviewed in the event of an incident.

Are there any private areas that should have surveillance cameras?
Hotel rooms themselves should not have cameras, but hallways, corridors and any entrance or exit doors should have cameras. Also some rather uncommon areas should also have surveillance such as laundry, trash disposal, bar and kitchen areas. Ballrooms or event rooms typically do not have cameras, but it is a good idea to have a camera at least pointed at the doorways.

Should the parking lot or outside grounds have cameras also?
It is ideal to keep the parking lot well lit and install security cameras that can withstand weather conditions. This not only protects your hotel or motel from theft, vandalism or damage to exterior areas but it also gives your hotel guests added security knowing that their vehicles are monitored.

What is the best way to protect valuable works of art that are on display at the hotel?
Special security cameras should be dedicated to valuable items such as art, sound equipment, musical instruments or other items.

How can I prevent security cameras from being damaged or destroyed?
A security systems professional should be able to install CCTV cameras and other devices so that they are solidly mounted and so that cables are carefully hidden and protected from wear due to the elements or dust or friction. Also the security camera expert can mount the cameras so that they are above arm's reach and away from many vandals.

Do I need a monitoring station? Who should monitor?
With a CCTV installation it is wise to have someone authorized and trained to monitor activities. However, the equipment can run on its own with recording capabilities if the station is ever unmanned.

To give your guest the best experience in the hospitality industry, one of the primary goals is to give them a sense of comfort and security. Having a professionally installed CCTV security system provides your hotel or motel with the security and comfort that is needed in the hospitality industry.