Debunking Myths About School Surveillance Systems

Selecting a security system is a significant decision for school administrators and boards. It doesn’t matter if you’re upgrading or purchasing something new; investing in the safety of students and staff can often be a complex and emotional debate. This discussion must balance the needs of the school with the available budget. When people feel so profoundly regarding a specific topic, such as school safety, concerns can often become exaggerated to get one’s point across.  

In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the most common inaccuracies about school surveillance systems and explain how beneficial they can be for security efforts in Lubbock, TX, schools.

SEE ALSO: 3 Ways a School Surveillance System Creates a Safer Environment

Myth 1: Surveillance Systems Invade Privacy

Over the years, video surveillance has gotten adverse reactions because it is viewed as an invasion of privacy. In reality, these technical systems have been designed to enhance safety and not to monitor every individual action at every minute of the day. Cameras are typically placed in public areas, such as hallways, entrances, and parking lots to deter misconduct. They are not placed in private areas like bathrooms or locker rooms. Rest assured that video footage is typically viewed by a limited number of authorized people, and footage is never disseminated without cause, such as searching for a fugitive.

Myth 2: Surveillance Systems Are Complicated to Operate

Today’s surveillance systems are more user-friendly than ever and typically come with simple interfaces that school staff can easily operate. ASAP Security Services offers support for the systems we install and will always provide training for users as needed. 

Myth 3: Surveillance Systems Don’t Stop Crime

While nothing can stop crime 100%, studies have shown that the presence of surveillance cameras can significantly lower it. From reducing incidents of vandalism, bullying, theft, and more, cameras are a visible reminder that good behavior is expected in school.

Myth 4: Surveillance is Too Expensive for Schools

Indeed, the initial investment in purchasing and installing a surveillance system will take budgeting and planning; however, the ongoing benefits far outweigh the cost. Today’s technology is scalable and flexible, allowing schools to add to systems over time. All technology purchases are an investment, and one should always consider the alternative costs to the school should an incident occur.

Myth 5: Recordings Are Poor in Image Quality

Older surveillance technology may have offered poor image quality, but today’s surveillance systems capture high-definition images, making recognition efforts much more manageable. Technology will continue to improve over time, and schools that want to use these systems for security purposes should consider a plan to update them in the future as technology evolves.

School security is a must-have in today’s world. Surveillance systems are an essential part of any school security program. Remember that the technology used in school surveillance systems has changed a lot over the years and that the technology of such systems is effective at deterring crime, no matter the exaggerations you may have heard.

Contact us to learn more about surveillance system options for your school in Lubbock, TX. Be sure to tune in to our podcast to learn more about protecting Texas schools.