Here’s how it
works. Using technology that Maritron says was developed by the military,
digital video tracking enables CCTV cameras to track and graphically
record motion. The key word here is motion—the system is programmed
to record only when movement is detected, and only the type of movement
you select. Pullens says this means it can be set to distinguish
between, say, people walking by along the docks and a true intruder
trying to gain
access to your boat. Once a person
enters a camera’s field of view, a recorded announcement, which
can be a computer-generated voice or a human one, tells him or her to
stay put until you or a crew member comes outside. If the person continues
to move, additional cameras
sense the motion and activate further
announcements that are audible both inside the yacht and throughout
the surrounding
area.
Digital video tracking
is often used these days instead of deck sensors, another type of security
system that has been around for several years. As the name implies,
deck sensors are feelers placed in various locations underfoot that
detect movement. Like digital video tracking, deck sensors are interfaced
with voice systems to warn individuals to stay put until you come outside
to meet them, and the sensors will trip an alarm if the warning is ignored.
However, because installation of these deck sensors requires that your
yacht essentially be torn up, Pullens says that CCTVs provide the same
advantages more effectively.
Speaking of doors,
if you’ve ever misplaced
your house keys or car keys, you know all too well the feeling of panic
that can arise. So imagine what would happen if you—or your crew—did
the same with the keys to your yacht. Beyond that, while no one likes
to think about it, the fact remains that if you have a crew, one day
you or your captain may have to fire someone,
and what happens if that person holds onto or even duplicates a key?
To address this, Maritron can install a keyless entry system that works
with card readers, much like many hotels do these days. Since each card
has a code, if the card is lost or stolen, the code can be deleted from
the system. Depending on your needs, Maritron can set up the system
to record who comes and goes through each access point throughout the
day and control
access to certain areas, such as the master stateroom. The company also
says that since the card readers are sealed units, no parts are subject
to the harshness of the marine environment.
Another security expert
owners often turn to is Patrick Estebe, a former French captain and
the owner of Florida-based security-consulting firm AffAirAction. In
fact, Estebe was tapped by Palmer Johnson to assist with the development
of a new security division within its On Call program. (Palmer Johnson
On Call is a 24-hour, worldwide chandlery, fuel bunkering, and logistical
support service for owners, captains, and crew.) Estebe and his team
will perform a security survey in which they evaluate how easy it is
to get on and off your yacht and make recommendations for installing
a variety of equipment, such as the items mentioned above. But AffAirAction
will also check the crew’s training and review everything that’s
brought onboard before outlining a security plan and review all of these
findings with you, your family, and your crew present.
Logic dictates that
the key to a good security system is preventing an intruder from gaining
access to your boat. While the crew of the 102-footer described earlier
in this story got lucky, a bat isn’t exactly an ideal “system.”
Any expert will also tell you that a good security system simultaneously
avoids the disruption of normal onboard activities. At the end of the
day, there’s nothing more important than enjoying your investment
with peace of mind.
AffAirAction
Phone: (954) 765-1030. www.affairaction.com.
Maritron Phone:
(954) 929-6588. www.maritron.com.
Palmer Johnson
On Call Phone: (866) PJ-ON-CALL. www.palmerjohnson.com.