This is about more than protecting your investment. This is about protecting everything.
It requires a substantial investment, but every single dollar that you invest in car wash security is well worth it.
Consider that in a 4-day span in May 2015:
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In Greensboro, North Carolina, police say a 42-year-old man has been charged with stealing money from coin-operated vacuum cleaners at carwashes. He was charged with seven counts of felony safecracking along with misdemeanor counts.
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In Lapeer County, Michigan, police say an alleged car wash burglar was busted after he tried to exchange $200 worth of quarters at a bank.
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In Vineland, New Jersey, police are looking for whoever stole $200 worth of quarters from a West Garden Road car wash earlier this month.
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West Earl Township (in Pennsylvania) Police Department are investigating the theft of change from a coin-operated vacuum. at Highland Car Wash on Industrial Road in West Earl Township
The importance of car wash security
The good news is you have plenty of car wash security options to protect your business. You can rely on:
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Security cameras and video monitors
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Locks
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Gates
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Barrier systems
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Proper lighting
Curtis L. Ray, vice president of Acquire Video Security Alarm systems, recently told Carwash.com that, “Typically, criminals like to follow the path of least resistance and will tend to target homes or businesses where there is opportunity to commit their crimes quickly and with little to no chance of getting caught.”
“A carwash that has a working alarm system and security cameras clearly visible will not be as attractive of a target as the business next door that does not have these measures in place.”
Choosing the right system
A new business owner might be led to think they need the latest and most modern security system—but this isn’t always the case. For example, any security camera is better than no camera.
“All information on a video is helpful, even if it is blurred,” Al Mitchell told Washtrends.com.
“It can be used to recognize car type, model, a distinctive set of wheels, dents, as well as identify the suspect with clothing, mannerisms, and actions. While a date and time stamp is valuable, it is not a necessity.
He added the sight of a camera dissuades many thieves and vandals.
Lighting is also crucial in keeping the wrong people away.
Jayson McDowell, of Beta Lighting told Washtrends, “Criminals do not like well-lit locations.”
“The biggest mistake an owner can make is too little light… Wall-pack lighting is the cheapest and easiest way to make your site safe and secure. It is also the best way to increase night time business,” said McDowell.
A system worth protecting
While you’re revisiting security measures, you might take a second look at the system you’re protecting.
With more than 30 years experience, we know what your car wash needs to be profitable. Learn more about our car wash systems or contact us for more information.