When you’re searching for self storage units, there’s one thing that should take priority over all else: security. Making sure your items are safe from theft or damage should be at the top of your list when it comes to selecting a self storage facility.
So, how can you make sure your belongings are secure? By looking for facilities that offer the right security features to meet your needs. In this article, we’ll share some of the top security features that every self storage facility should have and discuss how they protect your possessions. We’ll also give you tips on what to look out for when evaluating a facility’s security before renting a unit. Let’s get started!
What Are the Basics of Self-Storage Security?
As you investigate self-storage facilities for your valuable items, there are a few basic but important security elements to consider.
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure the facility is fenced and gated—that way, only those people who have been authorized access will be able to get in. Additionally, look for 24-hour surveillance cameras that can monitor both the exterior and interior of the facility. That way, suspicious activity that takes place within the premises can be recorded and used as evidence if needed.Get more details on storage units Halifax here.
Finally, ask about the number of locks that are present at each storage unit. Many facilities include multiple lock features with each unit—including a personal lock and an additional security lock that is managed by the facility. This means your unit will always remain locked with two separate locks—important protection against theft or vandalism.
When shopping around for self-storage, you’ll want to make sure these three basics are covered in order to ensure your valuables remain safe and secure throughout their stay.
24/7 CCTV Surveillance
When it comes to self storage facilities, you want to be sure that your items are safe and secure at all times. That’s why it’s important to look for a facility that has 24/7 CCTV surveillance. This type of security camera system is an extra safeguard for your items, as it allows the facility staff to monitor activity in and around the storage units day and night.
Also, make sure the CCTV system records footage—that way, if something does happen, you’ll have surveillance footage of what occurred. And if you’re worried about visibility within your unit itself, most facilities offer an option to install an internal camera that only you can view.
Plus, not only do security cameras provide an extra layer of protection for your items; they also create a feeling of safety and deter any potential thieves from trying to break into any units. So don’t forget to check that a self storage facility has 24/7 CCTV surveillance before signing anything!
High-Security Locks
You want to make sure your things are safe, and one of the best ways to do that is to ensure that the self storage facility you choose has high-security locks.
High-quality locks provide a first line of defense against theft, so it’s important to look for a storage facility that offers keyed locks with either a cylinder or mortise latch. Keyed locks require a unique key for each unit, and they should be able to be opened from both the outside and inside.
When it comes to locks, remember that the higher the security rating, the better. Look for options like:
- Medeco High Security Locks: These specialized locks come in several grades and can be keyed differently than traditional locks.
- Digital Locks: Digital locks offer a higher level of security as they require a code in order to unlock, making them harder to copy or pick.
- Interchangeable Core Locks: For an even higher level of security, look for interchangeable core locks—they require an entirely different set of tools and skills than standard cylinders or padlocks.
Finally, make sure your chosen storage facility inspects their locks on a regular basis for any signs of tampering or damage—this is especially important if your facility does not offer digital or high-security options. This way you can rest assured that your belongings are secure at all times with the best possible protection available.
Access Control Systems
When you’re looking for a self-storage facility to keep your possessions safe and secure, one of the features you should look for is an access control system. Access control systems provide keyless entry, either with passcodes or access cards. This is fantastic because it eliminates the need for you to keep track of keys and makes it easier for the facility to monitor who is entering and leaving the premises.
What’s more?
Many access control systems also offer two-factor authentication — meaning two levels of verification are required before entry can be granted. It also gives you comprehensive reports that let you know who has accessed your unit and when they were there.
Additional Benefits:
Additionally, some access control systems even use biometric technology — like facial recognition or fingerprint scanning — to ensure that only authorized personnel can enter the storage facility. This adds another layer of protection for your belongings, as well as extra peace of mind that your items are always secure.
Fire Detection & Prevention Systems
When it comes to securing your belongings, it’s important to make sure the self-storage facility you choose has advanced fire detection and prevention systems. Most self-storage facilities are equipped with smoke detectors, fire alarms and sprinkler systems.
Smoke detectors
Smoke detectors are designed to detect the presence of smoke from fire and alert you before a small fire turns into a big one. These detectors should be placed in key locations throughout the facility, including common areas, hallways and individual units.
Fire alarms
Fire alarms are designed to set off an alarm when smoke is detected. This alarm will notify you if there’s a fire so that you can take action quickly. Some facilities even have voice evacuation systems that tell you what to do in case of a fire.
Sprinkler systems
In addition to smoke detectors and fire alarms, most self-storage facilities also have sprinkler systems installed. These sprinkler systems will automatically turn on when they detect smoke, smothering the flame before it has time to spread throughout the facility.
These three security features — smoke detectors, fire alarms and sprinklers — can help keep your things safe from potential fires in the event of an emergency. Make sure that you pick a self-storage facility that has all three of these features for optimal safety!
Enhanced Lighting & Alarms
If you’re looking for top security features in self storage, then you’ll want to be on the lookout for enhanced lighting and alarms. Enhanced lighting helps ensure that no intruder goes unnoticed, while alarms can alert you to any unwanted visitors.
Enhanced Lighting
When it comes to enhanced lighting, look for motion-detecting lights that are triggered when movement is detected, as well as high-intensity floodlights that can provide a wide area of coverage. Also check to see if the facility has lights throughout the premises or just around the entrance/exits.
Alarms
An alarm system provides an additional layer of security by detecting the presence of an intruder and notifying security personnel or even the police. The best alarm systems will be linked directly to a central monitoring system, with round-the-clock monitoring from offsite personnel.
The combination of enhanced lighting and alarm systems make it less likely for your belongings to be taken without detection and ultimately allows you to sleep better at night knowing that your valuables are safe and secure!
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting your precious items, the importance of choosing the right self storage facility can’t be understated. Make sure you look for the security features that best suit your needs, such as those we mentioned—24/7 on-site staff, gate access codes, and advanced surveillance.
Keep in mind, the security features will be different depending on the facility. Don’t be afraid to ask what their security measures are—it’s essential to your peace of mind. Many facilities also offer added services like temperature-controlled units and online account management.
Choosing the right self storage facility for your security needs is the best way to keep your valuable items safe and sound. Don’t skimp on security—it’s worth the effort!
