In recent years...there has been no shortage of innovations in the CCTV
industry with manufacturers competing to better meet
the needs of crime prevention.Most visibly, more
surveillance cameras have appeared in more public areas
than ever before,proving their effectiveness and generating
interest in maximising the benefits of operating a surveillance
system.
The bewildering choice of different equipment and the desire for practical
knowledge in this area demonstrates that,as with most disciplines, a little research
into the subject will yield higher quality decisions and an improved cost/benefit
ratio.It is intended that this Guide should assist you to ask the right questions and
direct you towards the best possible solution.
The generalised use of crime statistics,of which there are many varieties, conceal
the fact that every situation is different and requires a tailored approach.Most
businesses,for example, take an economic approach to the use of security measures
– how much will a system cost and how much loss will it prevent? An often quoted
but nevertheless true precept is that businesses,particularly retail, often
underestimate the true extent of losses.The importance of conducting a detailed audit
and survey before even considering technology cannot be over-emphasised.
Where CCTV is used in town centre schemes,the principal objective is to
improve the quality of life for the inhabitants by reducing actual and perceived
crime.Continuing Government support for video surveillance in public areas reflects
the value of a properly specified scheme and its place in providing information for a
measured police response.
To be an effective deterrent,the system must provide actual as well as
theoretical results and be introduced as one part of an overall crime prevention
initiative.Where this ‘system credibility’ has been established, the greatest benefits
have been derived.
Included in this Guide are some examples of highly credible surveillance
schemes where the users have achieved the maximum benefit from their systems,
together with detailed background information on the selection and operation of
CCTV.We have also included information about how new technology is offering
higher levels of performance in video surveillance than ever before.
Brian Kelly,
Marketing Manager,CCTV & Components
Sony Broadcast & Professional UK
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