Back to Industry SolutionsShopping Mall Video Security
Whenever there is a large gathering of people and a large exchange of money, there is a risk for criminal activity. Shopping malls are no exception to this rule. Most malls have very large open areas, many levels of stores, restaurants, along with delivery areas. The ceilings are often high and the walls are spaced out, presenting many unique difficulties for security experts. Therefore, it is essential that the systems are properly and strategically placed in order to continuously monitor all important areas of the shopping structure.
Pros for Video Surveillance in Malls Reduce Theft Crimes � The large number of retail stores, food courts, walkways, delivery areas, and gathering places within a mall structure are all prime targets for thieves looking to capitalize on unsuspecting people. Security cameras can spot any suspicious activity, allowing loss prevention to investigate the situation and contact police officers if need be. Deter Criminal Behavior � Just the mere presence of CCTV equipment in a mall help thwart criminal activity and helps eliminate such misfortunes as kidnappings, theft, fighting and violence. Increase Shopper�s Safety � By having video surveillance present, it gives customers the confidence that they are safe and secure when purchasing their products. Remote Management Solution � Owners of the various retail stores can view their employees and ensure they are working efficiently and aren�t stealing from the store. Crime Evidence Tool � Footage captured of any criminal activity can provide police and investigators with integral information on specific incidents and guilty parties.
Cons of Surveillance Cameras in large retail structures Installation � Because of the large areas that need to be covered, a team of experts needs to be deployed that can handle the installation of IP Cameras (such as Wireless IP Cameras) or Analog Cameras (like certain dome cameras), or a combination of both in a hybrid system. Make sure you work with professional installers, such as those who work with Worldeyecam. Vandalism � If the surveillance cameras are broken or damaged, the image and signal can be compromised. That is why it is important to have backup security measures in place should there be a disconnect in surveillance. Monitoring Station � Just because you have a state of the art system, doesn�t mean you are done just yet! Now, it is important to have properly trained staff or outsourced video monitoring. The security team will then ensure that no criminal activity is taking place on the various feeds throughout the mall. Setup for Shopping Mall Security Cameras
Due to shopping malls having a unique build-out, which oftentimes includes multiple shopping levels and areas, unique difficult areas to view, malls present some challenging aspects for a surveillance system. Consider some of the following factors:
Does the mall have proper security staff present to handle the monitoring and dispatching? What are the current security measures utilized at the mall and how will brining in a new system work with the existing equipment? What areas are considered private or restricted so that cameras are not placed there. Having proper signage disclosing the presence of security cameras is important, you can find such material here. Is there a parking structure at the mall site? What is the criminal statistical data of the mall and what have been the biggest problems? Does the mall have long corridors, high ceilings, elevators? How many feet do you plan on running cable for? For the distant spots, consider IP cameras. Advice for Mall CCTV Setup and Installation Place security cameras at all choke points, entrances and exists in order to capture a clear facial image of all visitors to
the mall. Install surveillance cameras in public open areas such as food courts, gathering areas, and plazas to get a good idea of all shopping mall movement and activity. Situate CCTV cameras at intersections and crosswalks within the structure in order to monitor all areas in which visitors move throughout the facility. Properly deploy video surveillance of any parking structure or area associated with the complex. Maintain security cameras in loading dock and delivery stations. Consider using a Geovision system with built-in video analytics for spotting any suspicious activity involving criminal activity, leaving objects and other abnormal behavior. For the Geovision systems, go here. 
