How Can Hotel Owners Improve Security For Guests?

Part of having a good night’s stay at a hotel is feeling secure. Unfortunately, hotels are a common target for burglars - unmonitored cars, valuables left in rooms and unattended suitcases in lobbies can all be attractive loot for seasoned and opportunistic thieves. By putting in place certain security measures, you can ward off criminals. This is particularly worthwhile if your hotel is located in a high crime area. Below are just a few ways to improve security for your hotel guests. 

NFC Keycards

Keycards are an excellent way to restrict access to rooms, however the keycard technology that you choose matters. Traditional Magstripe keycards are becoming less common nowadays as they don’t encrypt data, can be more easily duplicated and are prone to wear and tear. NFC keycards are a modern option that requires tapping a sensor instead of swiping - these cards can be remotely activated and deactivated and may even have tracking features to determine when they are being used. If a keycard falls into the wrong hands, this makes it easier to pinpoint and eliminate any threat. 

In-room Safes

In-room safes give guests the option to keep their valuables somewhere secure. Even if you wholly trust your cleaning staff, providing hotel room safes is worthwhile for heightening the trust of guests. Consider looking into high quality options such as these Safemark hotel safes that can be professionally installed and are ultra-durable against break ins. 

Video Surveillance

It’s worth installing video surveillance in public areas - not only will cameras help to capture evidence of crimes, but they can also act as a deterrent if placed somewhere noticeable. Key areas to consider installing video surveillance include parking lots and suitcase storage rooms. However, you can also consider adding video cameras to other areas like your lobby and hotel corridors. Never install cameras in hotel rooms.

Parking Lot Lighting

Unlit parking lots are much more likely to be hotspots for crime. While stealing modern cards is very difficult nowadays, thieves will still break into cars to steal valuables such as dashcams and phone mounts, and they are more likely to do this in a dark parking lot where they’re likely to go unseen. Installing lighting around the parking lot will make it more secure and welcoming. Larger parking lots may benefit from floodlights, however you need to consider the impact on any nearby guests’ rooms - anything too bright may affect their sleep unless you install blackout curtains. 

Window Restrictors

Window restrictors prevent how far a window can be opened. This means that if a guest leaves open a window while they are not in their room, a thief cannot climb into the window to steal any valuables, as the window won’t open far enough for them to squeeze through. Window restrictors can also be good safety features on upper story windows, preventing kids or adults from being able to climb out. Other features like security bars can be considered, but can have a slightly more hostile look that may not be suitable to hotels trying to project a luxurious and welcoming image.