There are more than 8,000 marinas in business across the United States. These marinas serve a variety of clients and owners — some are used to moor privately owned ships, while others are available to the public. And still others serve both local clients and international ships when they come to port.
What these marinas have in common is the need for security. If boats are damaged or robbed, business reputation suffers and owners may take their business elsewhere.
To keep ships safe and provide peace of mind for owners, operations need to invest in marina security systems. Here are 9 points to ponder before making a purchase.
Navigating the Next Generation of Marina Security: 9 Questions to Ask
Better marina security helps boost owner confidence and improves business reputation. With a host of both traditional and next-generation options available, however, it’s easy for marina operators to find themselves overwhelmed by choice.
Want to get your feet wet with better security but not sure where to begin? Start with 9 simple questions.
1) Is the system designed for marinas?
Marinas come with unique environmental challenges. Equipment such as cameras, motion sensors, lights and alarms must be able to withstand both high humidity and dampness. If your marina is located on the ocean, you’ll also need systems capable of standing up to salt water.
2) Does the solution require internet access?
Modern security systems typically upload images and media files to cloud servers for review and analysis. In most cases, however, this requires a wired Internet connection, something that can be difficult for marinas to maintain, especially if they are outside urban areas.
To ensure security systems stay connected, look for solutions that offer cellular support along with Internet options.
3) How are security devices powered?
Power is another concern for marinas. While running cords and cables to on-site power supplies is a possibility, it also means that if the power goes out, so does your security system. To deliver consistent protection, consider a system that includes solar-powered options.
4) What level of control and customization is offered?
Recording security footage all day every day can strain connections and leave marina operators with days or weeks’ worth of footage to scan if an incident occurs.
To help solve this problem, look for systems that let you customize recording options. For example, you might choose to have cameras only record if motion sensors or lights are activated.
5) Are security systems available on demand?
Does the system offer remote camera monitoring? Push notifications or alerts if alarms are triggered? Best-in-class security systems should provide on-demand access through mobile apps or software portals.
6) What combination of devices are offered?
While cameras are a great starting point for marina security, look for providers that offer multiple camera types, such as fixed and mobile view, cameras with zoom options or those with infrared.
Other useful devices include motion sensors, audible alarms and two-way voice speakers that let you hear what’s going on at your marina and speak to anyone on-site.
7) How much does the system cost, both upfront and over time?
Cheap isn’t a great selling point for marina security. But you also don’t want to overpay for your system — before signing any service agreement, ask for details about upfront costs for devices and ongoing costs for connections, storage or other services.
8) Does the system help your marina meet ISPS regulations?
The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code lays out rules that marinas must follow if they want to receive and dock international ships. This code includes requirements for security measures that help reduce the risk of theft or damage. If your marina serves international vessels, look for a provider that helps you meet ISPS standards.
9) What benefits does the system offer for marina members?
Security systems should also offer benefits for marina members. These may include app-enabled access to docking facilities or granting access to authorized visitors.
Keeping Security Ship-Shape
The right marina security system plays a critical role in reducing the risk of crime, keeping boats safe and providing peace of mind for owners.
Be certain of your decision. Ask your security system provider the questions above to ensure you’re getting the right mix of price, performance and protection.
The post 9 Points To Ponder When Investing In Marina Security Systems appeared first on My Boat Life.
