CCTV Surveillance
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance involves using video cameras around the dealership (showroom, lot, service area) to deter and record any suspicious or criminal activity. For security, Canadian dealerships install CCTV to monitor their premises after hours for theft or vandalism, and during business hours to protect staff and customers (for instance, having a record of any altercations or accidents). Modern systems allow remote monitoring via smartphones and can store footage for a certain period. Not only do cameras act as a deterrent (visible cameras make thieves think twice), but if an incident occurs, footage can assist law enforcement and insurance claims. Dealerships must also respect privacy laws; cameras should be in public areas (not bathrooms, etc.), and if audio recording is involved, additional consent issues might arise. Overall, CCTV is a key component of a dealership’s physical security strategy.