How to Secure Your Parking Lot with Advanced Security Systems in Toronto
Originally posted on 14 February 2025
Parking lots tend to be open spaces that hold incredibly valuable property, from fleets for service companies to personal vehicles, trucks, school buses and more. Investing in security camera systems with advanced analytics and live video monitoring for parking lots can help protect your assets and reduce the costs associated with stolen vehicles, break-ins, and catalytic converter theft. The best security cameras and alarms for your commercial security system will depend on your property, the vehicles, your operation, traffic, and more. The specialists at Engineered Alarm Solutions Inc. are experienced in curating tailored security systems that support crime deterrence. To learn more about how our team can help you, book a consultation.
Ultra-Low Light and Hybrid-Light Security Cameras
One of the most critical components of an effective parking lot video surveillance system are cameras capable of producing detailed, high-quality colour images, especially at night or in low light conditions. Unlike traditional black-and-white night vision cameras that only rely on infrared LED backlighting, modern ultra-low light cameras capture clear, full-colour footage even in low-light conditions. This advanced imaging capability is essential for identifying crucial details such as clothing colour and vehicle descriptions, which can make all the difference in identifying suspects and assisting law enforcement in investigations. Hybrid-Light cameras provide the functionality of a traditional camera and ultra-low light camera in a single unit. These cameras will utilize infrared LED backlighting, producing a traditional black-and-white image, however, if a vehicle or human presence is detected by the camera analytics engine, the camera will automatically switch to visible, white LED backlighting and produce a full-colour image. The camera’s backlighting transition to a visible white LED also provides additional deterrence.
These cameras, when strategically placed around your property, provide a comprehensive surveillance solution that helps to deter potential criminals and captures detailed evidence in case of any incidents.
By investing in coloured image security cameras, you can significantly reduce vandalism, theft, and unauthorized access.
PTZ, License Plate Recognition Security Cameras
PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras are an extremely valuable tool for protecting parking lots. These cameras are motorized and allow the camera’s field of view to be adjusted from left to right (360 degrees), up and down and, most importantly, leverage optical zoom to provide enhanced image detail with no loss of resolution or pixelation. These cameras also allow for virtual guard tours on the property as well as automatic tracking of moving objects which greatly enhance the awareness and visibility into activity at the property when compared to stationary security cameras.
When placed strategically throughout the property, PTZ cameras can provide greater coverage with more detail and greatly reduce blind spots.
LPR (license plate recognition) specialty cameras elevate parking lot protection to a higher level. These cameras are purpose-built to record and recognize license plates in adverse lighting conditions. In addition to license plate recognition, these cameras also perform object classification on the vehicles and can identify the vehicle’s colour, make and model. Furthermore, these cameras can be configured to alert property managers and owners when a vehicle with a blacklisted license plate is detected at the property.
LPR cameras are best suited for installation at parking lot entrance and exit points.
Live Video Surveillance Monitoring, Active Deterrence and Rapid Response
Engineered Alarm Solutions Inc. specializes in implementing parking lot live video surveillance solutions for security camera system deployments at a fraction of the cost of traditional security guard services. When advanced camera analytics are paired with our best of breed live video surveillance services, camera analytics alert monitoring station operators of ongoing activities at your property.
Monitoring station operators actively monitor activity at the property in real-time. In the event of suspicious activity or a crime in progress, the monitoring station operators initiate customized response protocols immediately. These protocols can include live audio talk down with the suspect, notifying emergency contacts of the activity, dispatching a security guard service or police. This level of live surveillance and active deterrence is not possible to achieve with video security cameras alone.
No Wi-Fi? No Problem! Reliable GSM Communications
Most parking lots are not equipped with wired internet or Wi-Fi networks. In order to utilize real-time remote notifications from security camera analytics or to enable live video surveillance services an internet connection to the camera system at the property will be required. Engineered Alarm Solutions Inc. has developed strategic partnerships with various vendors and is able to offer connectivity solutions to overcome most internet infrastructure limitations. We utilize long-range PtP Wi-Fi services as well as 4G LTE GSM networks to enable security systems to transmit real-time alerts, alarms, and surveillance data, ensuring that property owners and security personnel receive instant notifications, regardless of their location.
GSM-based security solutions are particularly beneficial for remote or large parking lots where a traditional wired security system may not be practical. These systems work by sending SMS, calls, or mobile app notifications in response to security breaches, motion detection, or perimeter alarm triggers. Some advanced systems also allow for two-way communication, enabling security personnel to remotely interact with individuals in the parking lot using intercom features.
Protect Your Vehicles and Parking Lots with Engineered Alarm Solutions
Don’t let your fleets, buses, and more be sitting ducks to criminals looking to steal or vandalize.
Investing in a reliable security system that is tailored to your particular needs will strengthen your defence and help minimize loss in the case of a break-in. For decades, the Engineered Alarm Solutions Inc. team has supported business owners and homeowners in building reliable, advanced, budget-friendly security systems. To explore how our team can help you, book a consultation.
