Construction sites are easy targets.
They’re full of valuable tools, copper wire, equipment, and materials. Most sites also sit empty overnight and on weekends. Criminals know that. They drive by, watch for a few nights, and when nobody responds, they move in.
We’ve seen it happen many times across Saskatchewan.
The problem isn’t that sites don’t have security. Many have cameras or alarm systems. The problem is that most of those systems are passive. Cameras record what happened. Alarms send notifications after someone has already broken in.
By the time anyone reacts, the theft or damage is already done.
Why Construction Sites Are Targeted
Construction sites attract thieves for a few simple reasons:
⬢ Valuable tools and equipment left on site
⬢ Copper wire, fuel, and building materials that are easy to resell
⬢ Limited lighting or security overnight
⬢ No one present after work hours
Even when cameras are visible, criminals often assume nobody is actually watching.
Unfortunately, they’re usually right.
The Problem With Traditional Security
Most construction sites rely on one of three things:
Security cameras
These help after the fact. They provide evidence but rarely stop the crime.
Alarm systems
Alarms trigger once someone has already entered the site. Many thefts happen in minutes.
Security guards
Guards can work, but they are expensive and difficult to staff consistently. Coverage gaps are common.
For many projects, none of these options provide reliable protection.
A Different Approach to Construction Site Security
ACTVGRD™ BY REED SECURITY uses AI-powered video monitoring combined with trained remote guards who actively watch construction sites after hours.
Here’s how it works:
⬢ AI software detects suspicious activity and filters out false alarms
⬢ Remote guards immediately review the live video
⬢ If a threat is confirmed, guards issue a live voice warning through speakers on site
⬢ Police are dispatched if necessary
Instead of reviewing footage the next morning, threats are addressed while they’re happening.
In many cases, a simple voice warning is enough to stop criminals before they cause damage or steal anything.
Lower Cost Than Security Guards
General contractors often use overnight security guards to protect sites. The challenge is cost.
A guard working overnight can easily cost $25 to $40 per hour, which adds up to $10,000 to $15,000 a month.
ACTVGRD™ BY REED SECURITY provides continuous monitoring at a fraction of that cost while covering every night and weekend.
Protect Your Construction Site Before Theft Happens
Theft and vandalism can delay projects, increase insurance claims, and create unnecessary stress for project managers.
The good news is that there are better options than passive cameras or expensive guards.
If you want an honest look at how exposed your construction site may be after hours, we can help.
Book a FREE Site Security Assessment and we’ll show you practical ways to reduce risk.
Learn more here:
actvgrd.ai