The Robots Are Coming ... To Protect Your Self Storage Facility!

Kiosk shaped robots represent an interesting advancement in commercial security, offering numerous benefits such as enhanced surveillance, interaction, and cost efficiency. For places that need 24/7 protection, and static cameras are not quite enough, these mini security guards on wheels are being incorporated into the self storage community slowly but surely.

Back in 2021, Public Storage unveiled a security robot/droid in a Southern California location that not only had 360 degree cameras, but also spoke English and Spanish. Apparently, the little Star Wars fugitive makes his rounds around the property to inform customers that it’s almost closing time and alert those who are still on site past business hours. C3IOU (our nickname) also lets customers know they can get help in the front office when they need it.

The company responsible for this new “Self Storage Robotic Security” (a term soon to be Trademarked by someone, I’m pretty sure) is Knightscope – an advanced security technology company based in Silicon Valley. Along with the Public Storage droid, they also announced in a 2023 press release that: “Knightscope’s K5 ASRs will patrol five storage location – two in the Portland area and three others in California.” Anyone that has seen, talked to, or bumped into one is encouraged to let us know which facilities are deploying them.

Just last month, they put out another press release that stated "a self-storage company known to be one of the fastest-growing self-storage platforms in the United States" had deployed two of these droids. Who is this forward-thinking company? SecureSpace, which has highlighted the robot in their blog.

Should you take advantage of these futuristic ‘rent-a-cops”? Let’s weigh out the pros and cons:

Advanced Surveillance

• 24/7 Monitoring: Autonomous robots can patrol areas continuously without the need for breaks. I’m guessing they need to be recharged, but battery life should be long lasting.
• Multiple Sensors: Equipped with cameras, microphones, and thermal sensors, they can detect suspicious activities quickly and send info back to homebase.
• Facial Recognition: Advanced AI connected to the cameras software protocols enables them to recognize unknown faces, helping in identifying intruders or unauthorized personnel.

Enhanced Interaction

• Deterrence: Potentially, their presence alone can deter potential criminals. Although I’m not sure how many whacks they would endure with a baseball bat?
• Communication: They can interact with humans, providing assistance, information, or issuing warnings. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a conversation with a giant Roomba with a camera?

Integration with Existing Systems

• Smart Systems: They can be integrated with existing security infrastructure, such as alarm systems and CCTV networks. Perhaps, down the line, even accept credit card payments.
• Data Analysis: Collect and analyze data in real-time, providing actionable insights that you might be able to apply for marketing purposes.

Mobile Patrolling

• Versatility: They can navigate through different terrains, indoors and outdoors, covering large areas efficiently.
• Remote Control: Security personnel can control them remotely, allowing for flexible and dynamic responses to incidents. Let the Self Storage BattleBots Octagon match commence!!
• Incident Management: When an incident occurs, robots can connect with standby human operators. This hybrid approach can potentially combine the efficacy of robots with the judgment and decision-making capabilities of humans.

Cost Efficiency

• Reduced Labor Costs: They can reduce the need for human security guards, leading to significant cost savings.
• Longevity: While the initial investment might be high, their long-term operational costs are lower compared to human labor.

“Danger, Will Robinson” can soon be replaced by: “Your 10x10 is this way.”

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James McLean is a market analyst for New York City-based Union Realtime, the developer of Radius+, a comprehensive site selection and location intelligence platform for self-storage.