4 Commonly Asked Questions about School Video Surveillance Systems

The presence of video surveillance systems in schools is a commonly debated topic. The disagreement comes from a need for more understanding about the systems and how they work to protect students and staff. Asking questions is the best way to understand why these systems are used and how everyone benefits from them.

The fact remains that many schools rely on video surveillance as a significant part of their overall security plan. Continue reading for four frequently asked questions about school video surveillance systems and how they can help protect students and staff in Houston, TX.

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How are surveillance systems used in schools?

Video surveillance is an efficient and effective way to monitor a large school's hallways, entrances, and grounds without relying on robust onsite security staff. The presence of video surveillance is sometimes enough to deter crime from happening. But, in the event of an incident, such as bullying, violence, vandalism, vaping, or drug use, the cameras capture the event and gather evidence to charge the guilty parties.

In addition to identifying potential violence or crime, video surveillance systems can also be helpful in health-related issues, such as someone having a seizure or locating a missing child on the premises.

How is analytics helpful with video surveillance?

Today's best modern video surveillance systems include state-of-the-art machine learning and artificial intelligence software to provide real-time analytics and alerts to school administrators. Cameras can track and classify objects, learn daily routines, and recognize when things are out of place. Calling attention to anomalies can alert authorities to a potential crime about to take place so they can stop it before it happens.

Advancements in video analytics have made it so a human doesn't necessarily have to be watching the cameras 24/7, which benefits the school.

Where are video cameras typically placed?

The best use for video surveillance cameras is in areas where staff is only sometimes present. These areas include parking lots, building entrances and exits, hallways and stairwells, and outdoor spaces. The placement of cameras is critical to comprehensive security coverage.

The other part of this question is where you should not place video surveillance cameras. Again, school privacy is paramount, so we don't recommend installing them in private places such as bathrooms, locker rooms, or employee lounges. 

Who will have access to surveillance footage?

Determining who will have access to video surveillance footage is up to school administrators and their legal teams. Any decision must consider the right to student privacy, school security, and transparency. 

We know some people find video surveillance to be like Big Brother. Still, the fact is that when it comes to protecting the safety of students and staff, the cameras have proven to do an excellent job of deterring and capturing crimes. Safety should be the top priority for everyone.

If you have questions about how a video surveillance system could assist your Houston, TX, school security program, please contact us for more information.