security camera 1Many organizations’ prevention strategies could use an upgrade. Some organizations do not have a structured system of security. This can be problematic for both the safety of the employees and the protection of the assets and property of the business. Employees want to feel safe at the workplace and business owners want to protect their property from being vandalized, stolen, or damaged. Having both indoor and outdoor security cameras installed is an excellent tactic for preventing wrongful acts on the property of an organization.

Deterrence

In many cases, the mere presence of security cameras on a building is enough to deter people from committing wrongful acts on that property.  Potential wrongdoers know that modern security cameras are powerful enough to provide an exceptionally clear video surveillance tape to private security personnel and also the local and state police departments.

Novice offenders will fail to consider the presence of both hidden and visible security cameras before committing the act.  More experienced offenders will spend the time to survey the location several times to make note of the presence and location of security cameras.  If a business has many security cameras without easily detectable blind spots, then that organization is naturally safer from experienced criminal offenders during both the daytime and the nighttime.

In addition, posting warning signs around the property advertising the use of security cameras is a useful deterrent strategy.  Simple “WARNING!” signs containing a picture of a security camera are clear and effective.  Such warning signs could read, “Trespassers are both audio and video recorded at all times, violators will be prosecuted.” There are more polite and humorous signs to use throughout the property as well, such as, “Smile, you’re on camera!”  Although effective, some offenders may still choose to take the risk and dress in dark colors while wearing a mask or hat, hiding facial features. These risk-taking offenders are gambling as to whether the security cameras are actively monitored by a private security officer.

Actively Monitoring the Security Cameras

Active monitoring is the process of attentively watching monitors wired to security cameras and is generally performed by a trained security officer. A trained private security guard knows to never take his or her attention off of a monitor for too long because anything could occur at any time. Lack of attention to details could jeopardize the safety of personnel and property.

Experienced criminal offenders may want to take their chances by attempting to seal their identities from security cameras.  If the video display units are actively monitored by trained private security, then appropriate protocol can be followed.  The local police department, security supervisor on duty, and the client will all be notified instantly while the act is occurring.  The quicker the act is responded too, the more likely it is that the offender will be caught and arrested.  Failing to actively monitor security cameras with a trained private security guard could lead to relying on the security footage as evidence later on after the criminal has already escaped with the organization’s valuables.