Benefits Of Surveillance Cameras In Public Places
Many security cameras brands are quickly becoming a
frequent sight around the world. You can see them in stores, restaurants, even
at people’s homes. More and more cities and private entities have started to
use security cameras to monitor and record public places.
This brings up concerns and a good amount of
the population is curious as to what the benefits of having surveillance
cameras in public places are. Today we are going to explore those benefits in
order to provide you with the background you need to understand the importance
of surveillance cameras.
Monitor and Record Any Crime
The obvious function of public surveillance
cameras is to monitor and record any crime that happens in public places. A lot
of people become immersed in the idea that crime only happens in private places
but the truth is a good portion of crime happens in public spaces and people
just don’t notice it.
By monitoring and recording crime you can
capture criminals quicker. Sometimes it is even possible to prevent crime with
the use of surveillance cameras.
Deterrent To Crime
Simply the presence of security cameras has
proven to help deter crime in all areas. The presence os security cameras
indicates that there is a motivated defender present and makes it less likely
that a criminal will want to take action.
At the same time, not every criminal will bedeterred by the placement of security cameras. The most motivated of offenders
will continue to commit crimes.
Work In Combination With Other
Systems
There are other systems out there that governments
already implemented to track crime. Shotspotter, a system that detects the
sound of gunshots and is able to locate them, is an example of this.
Radiation
detection platforms are another example of this. Surveillance systems can work
in combination with existing systems to help determine where a crime is and who
the perpetrator is.
The systems don’t have to be crime related
either. Most cities allow the public to report traffic accidents and other
incidents. Surveillance systems allow for the monitoring of these incidents to
better coordinate responses and to reroute the public.
Peace Of Mind
Many citizens who know that an area is being
monitored will feel safer visiting there. In fact, with the reduction of crime,
they won’t just feel safer visiting a surveilled area. They will be safer. This
peace of mind in a dangerous day and age is priceless.
Gather Statistics
Public surveillance cameras are not just usedfor safety and security. Many cities that use them in public places also have
started to utilize them for data gathering. They are able to gather the
population of a given area throughout the day and to record traffic patterns.
This information can be used to bolster infrastructure and understand a
community.
Privacy Concerns
Surveillance cameras in public places should
not present any type of privacy concern. Most countries that allow surveillance
cameras in public places also allow for video taping by the public in public
places. With the power of cell phones, many people do this regularly.
The only time public surveillance cameras
become a privacy concern is if they are able to view private spaces. For
example, being able to see through someone’s window. This can and should be
avoided by the proper placement of cameras.