Newsletter Edition 4: July 2012
Edition 4: July 2012
Welcome to Oakpark News, where we bring readers up to date with new applications, introduce the people who make our business work, and answer some of your frequently asked questions. While reading, think about what you would choose for your Red Letter Day; would it be a driving experience on one of the local racetracks, or a pampering day at a luxury Spa? Just enter our simple competition and you could be the winner! We welcome your feedback, so if you have any questions, please contact us. enquiries@oakpark.co.uk
One Stop Shop for Security
Oakpark Alarms has been selected as the supplier of CCTV security camera systems, intruder and fire alarms for the Central Convenience Stores (CCS) chain of retail outlets, based across the South Coast. The company, formed earlier this year by retail experts Tony Scott and Steve Wilkinson, already comprises of 4 stores, and has ambitious plans to acquire a further 200 within 5 years.
The ideal profile of each store will be around 2000 sq ft, in a rural or village location, serving the needs of local neighbourhoods. Around 4000 lines will be stocked, using a national distributor for variety and value pricing. However, as part of the brand package, CCS is actively looking for local suppliers for bakery and fresh produce, to offer its customers a more personal choice.
Local is also one of the reasons CCS chose Oakpark Alarms to provide its security needs. Commercial Director Tony Scott explains, “The Oakpark offices are literally in the same building as one of our stores. When we started the company, both Steve and I wanted to work with local businesses, wherever we could get a good deal, and a reliable supplier. Oakpark takes care of everything, sorting out the building protection, dealing with police call-outs, maintaining the systems, and providing on going support. Their team understood our business and what we needed to achieve, and provided flexible solutions. Oakpark is a one stop shop for security and fire protection, which fits our style of business.”
“The first 3 systems are fully installed, and we are pleased with the results. The service is superb, and the whole team is very approachable, and willing to help. Would I recommend them? Definitely!”
Top (security) gear
H.A.S MG Rover, based in Poole, was formed in 2006 to help MG and Rover owners maintain their vehicles through manufacturer approved techniques and genuine MG Rover parts. Building on the knowledge, experience and enthusiasm of their specialist team, the company has expanded substantially, requiring relocation of the business to larger premises.
With specialist equipment and parts, security was paramount. Managing Director Scott Stacey brought in Oakpark to design, supply and install both the intruder alarm and CCTV systems. Following installation Scott was amazed at the functionality of the CCTV system. Not only could he view images remotely to a broadband equipped computer anywhere in the world, but he could also view the images to his SMART phone and control the system as if he was actually sitting in front of the DVR! In the event of an alarm activation, he can immediately review what is happening both inside and outside the property, which could potentially result in a faster response by the police.
As with most commercial properties, finding room for the CCTV DVR and monitor was a challenge. However by using the latest combined unit in which both the monitor and DVR are contained in the same housing, mounted on a wall bracket, it is both easily visible and takes up no additional surface space. Jeff Pearce, Managing Director of Oakpark Alarms explained, “ Since the introduction of these combined units we are finding that many clients prefer this approach as it reduces ‘clutter’ in the office environment.”
Face of Oakpark Alarms- Sharon Taylor
Sharon Taylor has looked after Oakpark Alarms’ accounting systems for 7 years, and in that time, she’s heard all the excuses. “The cheque’s in the post” is still popular, she says, along with “never received the invoice”. She brings a quiet determination, attention to detail and strong IT skills to the job, recognising every delaying tactic in the book, but makes sure all bills are paid. Avoiding bad debts is her mission. “Especially in these times of austerity, with businesses ceasing trading overnight, it’s essential that we invoice the customer promptly and chase for payment if it is overdue.”
Her dogged persistence is combined with a pleasant but firm manner, not only for potential late payers, but also for Oakpark’s engineers. Sharon is responsible for keeping the van fleet on the road. “It can be hard to get the engineers to part with their vans for a service or repair, but I persist – we make a joke about it!”
In her spare time, Sharon and her husband enjoy walking along the beach, going to the theatre with friends, or visiting new places on a weekend break.
FAQs
Q.If I install CCTV to protect my warehouse, can other businesses locally object on the grounds of privacy?
A.If your cameras include a partial view of a public place, such as the road, you need to ensure your installation and associated data which is received, stored, reviewed, or analysed complies with the appropriate British Standard. You also need to comply with sections of the Data Protection Act 1998, and the Human Rights Act 1998, and have a code of practice. Oakpark Alarms has installed hundreds of CCTV systems in business and domestic premises across the south of England, and based on this extensive specialist experience, can advise on procedures for each individual case.
Q.We have just taken over a specialist dementia care home, and we need a secure access system. What should I look for?
A. You should look at your overall objectives in detail, but door controls are a good starting point. You can use a swipe card system, which looks professional rather than institutional, allows time limited access to visitors, and is flexible, depending on your needs. Find one that the staff can use easily and make sure they have the training.
Q.With summer festivals, local fairs, and sporting events drawing large numbers of people to the area, I’m worried that thieves might take advantage of the crowds and also come visiting. What precautions should I take to protect my business premises?
A. Make sure your staff are aware of this potential security risk, and review your security procedures. If you have been putting off a service on your alarm system, book a date in the diary before anything goes missing. It is worth doing a daily check on materials of any value, for example lead, copper pipes and oil tanks, which are not able to be locked away. And if increased traffic congestion is likely to be a problem for your staff, consider a flexitime arrangement for the duration, which has the benefit of maximising the time staff are on site to keep an eye on things.
About Oakpark Alarms
This family run business provides a 24/7 backup service, and has installed and maintained more than 8000 systems. Did you know Oakpark installs and maintains all of these, for both Domestic and Commercial customers?
- Burglar alarms
- CCTV
- Fire alarms
- Access control systems
Phone 01202 827776 for more information
www.oakpark.co.uk
enquiries@oakpark.co.uk
Competition
To win a fabulous Red Letter Day out, simply email your answers to the following questions, by Wednesday 30 November 2011, to enquiries@oakpark.co.uk. The first correct answer drawn out of the fire bucket will be contacted to receive the Red Letter Day prize.
- What do the letters BAFE stand for?
- CCTV is useful for monitoring __________ in shopping centres
- Oakpark ‘s new Facebook page is www.facebook.com/____________
Conditions: The judge’s decision is final. Staff will not be allowed to enter. Entrants must be 18 or over. Winners will be notified within 7 days of the end of the competition. No cash alternative.
Memberships and Certifications
- BAFE registered SP203 scheme -the independent third party registration body for the fire protection industry. http://www.bafe.org.uk/
- Certified by Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB) http://www.ssaib.co.uk/ , accredited to UKAS 0131
- Fire Industry Association http://www.fia.uk.com/
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Contact us: If you have any questions about this newsletter, or want further information about any of the articles, please contact us:
Oakpark (Dorset) Ltd.
Wimborne
Dorset
BH21 6RJ
Tel: 01202 827776
enquiries@oakpark.co.uk
01202 827776