Museum Security Views
Although occasional museum heists make front-page news, most small museums grapple with more routine, day-to-day security issues. Armed thieves with an eye on iconic masterpieces are not the only security risks faced by museums. While institutions such as the Smithsonian have large security forces, the smaller community museum may be underfunded, with little to no budget for security improvements. Luckily, there are several simple devices that can ensure that both the museum's collections and its employees and visitors are well protected.
The first step is to stop unwanted visitors from breaking in. Place security cameras (either dummy or real) near the entrances to your museum. Surveillance cameras should also be placed indoors near particularly valuable artifacts as a theft deterrent measure. Wireless cameras are ideal for museums looking for a cost-effective solution, because you'll avoid needing to drill into the walls or run wires. Dummy cameras have a proven psychological benefit, while surveillance cameras can catch perpetrators in action, helping your museum retrieve stolen artifacts and catch perpetrators after the fact.
If you have valuable objects in your museum, consider effective security screening procedures for the entrance of the museum. A handheld metal detector can protect you from armed burglaries. If your museum has a collection of metal objects, similar security screening at the exits can ensure that small pieces do not walk out in someone's pocket. It is also a good idea to have a bag and coat check near the door to prevent opportunities for theft.
If your museum can't afford a million-dollar security overhaul, don't despair. Even museums with small budgets can do a lot to prevent theft in the museum. For less than a hundred dollars, you can outfit your museum with simple security measures that will go a long way towards protecting your collection, your staff, and your visitors.
Museum Security Images
