Introduction
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
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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