Technology Solutions vs. Trained Security Guards

Technology Solutions or Trained Security Guards in New York: Which Should You Choose?

Security guards have long played an important role in protecting New York City’s buildings, people, and events. In recent years, however, technology has advanced at a rapid pace. Not surprisingly, that innovation has also had a profound impact on the security services industry. New technological tools for security are developed each year. It’s only natural then for some people to wonder whether they even need trained security guards in New York these days, or if technology can just replace guards altogether. The question is simple: which should you choose?

Technological Solutions are Invaluable Aids

First, it’s important to acknowledge that today’s technology offers an unprecedented level of security and communications capabilities. Whether it’s cameras, communication arrays, or access control systems, these tools can greatly enhance your security. In fact, modern security would be only a fraction as effective if these tools were not available. As you might expect, there’s a very simple explanation for that obvious truth.

The reality is that today’s threats are more sophisticated than ever before. Criminals use modern technology to defeat security and achieve their illicit aims. Meanwhile, would-be shooters, terrorists, and other violent forces are attracted to so-called “soft targets” – areas where security is lax. Obviously, technological systems have an important role to play in hardening those sites and deterring crime and other nefarious acts.

But Can Technology Provide Security on Its Own?

The big question that needs to be answered is whether these new tech systems are enough. Can you secure your building and its occupants with nothing more than cameras, state-of-the-art access systems, and similar technology? Is there a good chance that those devices can do the job without NYC trained security guards on-site to manage an effective response?

Trained Security Guards in NYC Are Still the Gold Standard

Despite tech’s advancements, trained security guards in NYC continue to be the gold standard for protecting people, buildings, and events. Security technology can be a vital component of any protection strategy, but there are too many things that it cannot do. Technology cannot respond and de-escalate potential conflicts. It cannot provide personable, effective customer service. Just as important, its deterrent effect pales in comparison to the presence of a live human guard on the premises.

For the best security, rely on trained guards backed by the latest technology

Fortunately, you don’t have to make that choice. The best security guard firms in New York City rely on the latest technology solutions to enhance their services. In other words, it’s not an either-or proposition. When you hire true professionals, you get the benefit of all the high-tech tools they use to perform their jobs. Of course, the best way to receive those benefits is to hire the best security firm in the city: International Security Services, Inc. Contact us today to find out why our highly-trained security guards and innovative technology solutions are your best option for meeting your unique security challenges.

Picture of George Kozhar

George Kozhar

George Kozhar is a respected security professional, licensed private investigator, and founder of International Security Services (ISS) - New York City’s dedicated security experts since 1999. Mr. Kozhar and his team provide a full array of private and business investigative services in the U.S. and overseas, VIP executive protection, armed and unarmed security guard services and training, and Fire and Life Safety Director training through the company’s Fire Science Institute.

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August 10th, 2022

Property Security Evaluation Report

Your Individualized Property Evaluation Report

Your site’s individualized property evaluation report contains information and analysis that you need to properly manage your site’s security needs. That information includes detailed analysis of the crime rate in your area, site access and parking protocols, and existing security infrastructure. Interior inspection includes analysis of emergency exits, fire suppression capabilities, and alarm infrastructure for emergencies. Exterior inspection includes analysis of structural defects, property lighting, and potential vulnerabilities in building access.

In addition to those inspections, our analysis also considered environmental factors, potential risks from older trees, outside property maintenance, and nearby crime that may overflow to the area. We also examined emergency response planning, including fire evacuation protocols and information supplied to residents about proper evacuation process.

 

Pressing Suggestions


We highly suggest a camera placement along this driveway, as the overhead cameras in the back parking lot may not capture all makes, models, and license plates of cars entering in and out based on the angle they are recording from. The best camera placement would be at the green circle closest to the sidewalk/street.
The common area is easily accessible, but based on the angle that cameras are set at the front lot, anyone can enter the basement common area concealing the side of their face that is facing the camera. This is not to say that the camera arrangement should be changed, but it is highly recommended to have coverage in this common area as the common area is on a lower floor not visible from the sidewalk.


However, a few fundamental problems exist when it comes to access control of the back parking (a big territory). Even though only two issues have ever occurred there, the wide-open access point to that lot may need to be corrected sooner than later as there is a significant uptick in crime in the 62nd precinct.

Furthermore, there are two fundamental surveillance blind spots along the driveway leading to the back parking lot and every common area.

Lastly, however unlikely it may seem, tenants should have resources and a physical guide for situations that may require an evacuation. Whether it be a flood or fire, each tenant should know how to use a fire extinguisher and where to evacuate to during a flood regardless of their proximity to a shoreline.


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