Advantages of Security Cameras in Schools

There is no denying the simple fact that violence is rising in our society. Schools are a particularly sensitive environment where emotions and tensions can arise amongst youths. This can sometimes escalate into dangerous behaviors such as bullying - which is becoming an increasingly widespread problem in schools worldwide.

The old days of locked doors and security personnel no longer measure up to the challenges the students, teachers, and staff encounter on school grounds. There are many pros of security cameras in schools; mainly they allow us to monitor schools in a way that would ensure the sanctity of these teaching environments in a way that the more outdated methods no longer satisfy.

Importance of Surveillance Cameras in Schools

Many people will ask, why do schools need video surveillance? There are many advantages of having security cameras on school grounds, especially, but not exclusively, in public schools. Here are some advantages:

• Deter crime: In general, security cameras, just by their presence, have been shown to deter criminals in a variety of situations. This will prevent crime and ensure that students, their visiting families, the staff, and teachers will all feel safe on school campuses.
• Monitor and enforce school rules and procedures: This is an efficient way to make sure that all safety rules on school grounds are being followed.
• Provide evidence: In unfortunate cases, CCTV footage can be used as evidence.
• Reduce security costs: In the long term, a surveillance system will be less expensive than a round-the-clock team of security personnel.
• Reduce stress: Schools must promote a safe learning environment.

Places to Install

School cameras are usually placed in common areas that do not infringe on the students’ right to privacy. Putting cameras in bathrooms or changing areas is illegal. The places where cameras should be placed are as follows:

• School grounds
• Parking lots
• All exits
• Outside play areas or lounge areas
• Outdoor playing fields
• Hallways
• All inner doors and entryways
• Classrooms
• Cafeterias
• Libraries
• Gyms
• Office areas

When it comes to school safety it is paramount to not underestimate troublemakers who will look for blind spots in a school’s surveillance and attempt to circumvent it. Security cameras are only as good as their positions - it is important to build a school security system that is flexible and can easily be adjusted or upgraded as the needs arise.

Best Types of Security Camera Systems for Schools

In a perfect world, there would be no need for schools to have security cameras. However, in today’s climate schools must invest in the safety and well-being of their students.

All schools are different in size and layout so finding the right security system set-up is key to ensuring a safe learning environment. Many types of security cameras can aid schools so it's important to find the right solution.

Bullet Security Cameras

Surveillance cameras in schools must be mounted in the perfect area to capture the most footage possible. Bullet security cameras are great for exits, doors, outdoor areas, and parking lots because they are highly visible, and their presence often deters any suspicious activity. However, their flexibility is limited, and they only record in one direction which translates to many blind spots that can pose a risk.

Dome Security Cameras

An advantage to having CCTV cameras in school is that they can monitor students discreetly. The dome security camera has a dark covering around which makes it less visible than bullet cameras, so it is perfect for indoor areas. Dome cameras are flexible and can rotate to record footage. They are also less intimidating and intrusive which makes them an optimal choice.

PTZ Security Cameras

PTZ school surveillance cameras can pan and tilt automatically, which means they would be commonly installed in wide areas, but not exclusively. The pan-tilt-zoom camera is highly flexible, and its zoom feature is an indispensable tool in any school’s security system.

Similar to the dome camera, it is inconspicuous, allowing for non-threatening monitoring of students, staff, and teachers. The zoom features allow this camera to track motion and record footage that can be conveniently used for evidentiary purposes in the event of a school incident.

Conclusion

The question many people ask themselves: should schools have security cameras? The answer is simple: yes. Security cameras should not be seen as invasive, but rather as a comforting force for good to ensure that every student that attends can enjoy their scholastic experience. Make your schools a safe space for your children and contact us today.