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Home > Pros and cons to school security cameras -- advice to determine if this security measure is right for your district
October 06, 2006
By: Lynn Bryant
It is an unfortunate reality, but security concerns are
on the forefront of just about everyone's minds. This
certainly holds true for parents and schools officials alike
when it comes to protecting the safety of our children in
the school setting. Many school districts have already
turned to the use of security surveillance equipment to
improve the safety of their schools.
If your school district has not taken this step yet, it
would be good for parents and school officials alike to
review some of the pros and cons to school security cameras.
With a clearer understanding of the advantages and
disadvantages, it will be easier to make an educated
decision about whether or not to implement video
surveillance cameras.
Below is a listing of some of the pros and cons of
installing security cameras in schools.
Pros of installing security cameras
- Provides officials with evidence that would not be
available otherwise -- With constant video monitoring,
school officials have access to detailed evidence of any
suspicious or criminal activity.
- Acts as a crime deterrent -- It is a proven
fact that people are less likely to commit a crime if they
know that they are being watched. If students are aware of
the fact that their school is being monitored, vandalism
and other acts of violence may be greatly reduced. In
addition, in the event a crime is caught in action,
emergency officials will be better able to contain the
situation.
- Instills a sense of security for both parents and
students -- It is a comfort to many to know that their
school is being monitored on a daily basis. Care must be
taken though to ensure that video footage is actually
being monitored on a regular and timely basis. A sense of
security can be dangerous if the security measures
implemented are not being properly utilized.
Cons of installing security cameras
- Set-up and maintenance costs can be too prohibitive
-- There is a definite cost involved to purchasing,
installing, and monitoring security surveillance cameras.
While this can be a definite hindrance to some school
districts, it is important to research all of your options
before you completely dismiss the idea due to cost
concerns. The cost of surveillance equipment has dropped
dramatically over recent years, and many systems require
very little effort to install and maintain. With a little
bit of research, this drawback may be easily overcome.
- Invasion of privacy rights may pose legal liability
-- It would be wise to investigate any potential legal
concerns your school could face by installing surveillance
equipment. Any risks of potential privacy violations can
be avoided with a clear understanding of where and how
security cameras can be installed.
This certainly is not an exhaustive list of the all of
the pros and cons to installing a school surveillance
system. However, it does provide a starting point to
consider when deciding whether to move forward with a
security installation.
About the Author
Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and
contributor to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your
definitive guide to video surveillance equipment, CCTV
cameras and wireless security systems for home and business.
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