Case Study: How Intelligent Video Monitoring Helped Community Futures Lambton Protect Their Property and Staff
Client: Community Futures Lambton
Industry: Nonprofit / Business Support
Location: Sarnia, Ontario
Solution: Intelligent Video Monitoring (IVM)
Background
Community Futures Lambton (CFL) is a cornerstone for local entrepreneurs in Sarnia and Lambton County, providing financing, mentorship, and business resources to help small businesses thrive. When CFL moved into their previous downtown facility—a former elementary school—they ran into some serious security challenges. Staff often encountered individuals seeking shelter near building entrances, leaving behind items such as clothing or paraphernalia. Even with internal security measures like motion sensors and controlled-access doors, there was nothing to prevent unwanted activity around the exterior of the building.
“These situations weren’t just operational headaches—they were real health and safety concerns for our staff,” explains Sara Reaume, CEO of Community Futures Lambton. “We understand that many people are going through tough times, but staff were sometimes exposed to hazardous materials, and I wasn’t comfortable asking them to handle dangerous situations like that daily, even with gloves and sharps containers.”
Challenges
When CFL relocated to a new property on Christina Street, deeper into the downtown core of Sarnia, they were concerned the same issues could follow them. The property included a front porch and back areas vulnerable to trespassing and opportunistic theft. Past experiences showed that traditional security measures alone wouldn’t prevent people from occupying or damaging the property. CFL wanted a solution that would protect their staff and property without creating confrontations or relying solely on employees to intervene.
Solution
Damar Security Systems suggested Intelligent Video Monitoring (IVM) as a proactive solution. IVM combines A.I. cameras with live monitoring and real-time intervention, giving CFL the ability to deter incidents before they escalate.
Damar’s team designed a tailored system for the Sarnia property, including:
- Two cameras on the front porch at different angles
- One camera over the back door
- One camera covering the parking lot
The cameras use A.I. to detect unusual activity. If someone lingers too long, a live operator is engaged to evaluate the situation. Depending on what they see, the operator can issue a verbal warning directly through the system or escalate to local authorities if needed.
“Dave Lavoie from Damar walked me through everything and made it seamless,” Sara recalls. “I’m probably the opposite of a tech guru, and they made it really easy to understand and use.”
Results
Since installing the IVM system a year ago, the solution has eliminated escalated issues that staff had to historically deal with. Trespassers are deterred by the system without staff involvement, reducing risk and stress for employees.
“Night and day. Huge difference,” Sara says. “The most telling part of my testimonial is that I don’t even have any stories to tell – because it just works.”
The cameras also provide high-quality recordings, allowing CFL to review any incidents if necessary. But the true measure of success? Staff can focus on supporting Sarnia’s local business community without worrying about property damage or safety hazards.
Conclusion
Community Futures Lambton’s experience shows how Intelligent Video Monitoring can protect both people and property in a proactive, effective way. With Damar Security Systems’ expertise and a system designed specifically for their Sarnia property, CFL transformed a potentially stressful security situation into a safe, manageable environment.
