CCTV.... The Visual Deterrent
The general purpose of CCTV is to prevent and reduce crime.
In theory, this happens because of one or more reasons:
- Deterrence - potential burglars and thieves may see the camera and decide that the property is too much of a risk and therefore not a good target.
- Prosecution - thieves and burglars may be caught on camera, this can help in prosecutions and the recovery of property.
- Fear reduction - Staff may feel safer in or around your business.
- Monitoring and intervention – having someone monitor the property via CCTV system (either on site or remotely), allows action on any suspicious behaviour and thus prevent a crime from occurring. Security companies may deploy employees to the person detected on the monitors
Before purchasing CCTV it is worth considering what you expect it to achieve from installing CCTV. Although CCTV can play an important role in an overall crime prevention package, in isolation it may not be the most cost effective solution and may not give you the results you were expecting. It is often the case that images captured of a burglar show little more than a ‘figure’. Whilst this may assist in Police enquiry, in itself it will not result in a conviction. However if a monitored CCTV system is installed, this would allow for action to be taken immediately in order to stop criminal activity by initiating some form of response.
Factors to consider when thinking about investing in CCTV:
- What is your organisations purpose for using CCTV?
- What are the problems the CCTV will be aimed at addressing?
- What are the benefits to be gained from its use?
- Can CCTV technology realistically deliver these benefits?
- Can less privacy-intrusive solutions such as improved lighting, achieve the same objectives?
Having considered the need for using CCTV and having decided it is required for the prevention and detection of crime and for protecting the safety of customers and staff,you will have a legal requirement to notify the Information Commissioner. This is to comply with the provisions of the Data Protection Act and comply with human rights legislation. For more information on notifying the Information Commissioner and charges please visit this website.
Blu Sparx Electrical Contractor can provide you with a FREE consultation on your CCTV Requirements and provide you with an exact quotation for installing and maintaining any CCTV system that you will require.