With violence rising on school properties across the world, schools need security cameras more than ever. Schools need to take whatever security measures and precautions they can to make sure school grounds are safe at all times. Unfortunately, locking doors and having a security staff on-site is just not enough in this day and age to maintain great physical security. Security cameras and video surveillance help to regularly assure the safety and security of students, faculty and staff, and family members across the board.
If your school has not yet considered implementing security cameras on-site, now is the time to do so! We’re here to help by walking you through these 6 reasons why schools need security cameras.
6 Reasons Why Schools Need Security Cameras
1. Deter crime
Various studies in recent years have shown that video surveillance can deter all sorts of crime. The simple presence of security cameras on your school premises can be enough to ward off harmful criminals, who can pose a real threat to students, staff, and families.
Security cameras can significantly deter crimes like theft, break-ins, vandalism, trespassing and intruders, and even bullying. Typically, if a person looking to commit a criminal act is aware that they are likely to get caught, they will avoid that location altogether.
2. Cost savings on security needs
Most people agree that security is a must-have on school premises. However, some schools have tight budgets and the cost of installing security cameras may seem overwhelming or impractical.
However, compare the cost of a high-quality video surveillance system to the cost of other security measures, such as hiring a full-fledged, 24-hour security staff. You will save money by installing those cameras! Compared to the past, a high resolution video surveillance system is much more affordable in this day and age. Plus, you’ll likely save tons of money by avoiding security breaches and other incidents down the road.
3. Oversee school premises
It’s important for schools to have a staff that oversees the premises, as needed. You will want the option to monitor students, staff, and visitors, to assure activity is normal and safe to everyone who is on site.
For instance, schools need to make sure every visitor is authorized before entering the building. Security cameras add an extra layer to visitor security, to make sure there are no harmful intruders who are putting students and teachers at risk.
You also want to make sure your school is not exceeding maximum capacity, student activity and behavior is normal, and students and teachers are in areas they belong.
4. Provide evidence during incidents
In the case of an incident that occurs on the school premises, you will want video surveillance to provide evidence of what actually happened. For instance, there may be an incident between two students, such as a fight or a bullying incident. There may also be a complaint about a teacher’s conduct. Or there may be a crime that takes place by a trespasser. No matter the incident, by using security cameras, you can rest assured that you will have the evidence you need to sort out the incident with police and other local authorities.
5. Enforce school rules and procedures
It can be hard for faculty and staff to enforce school policies and procedures without accountability. As students get older and more rule-resistant, it can be especially difficult to make sure the school body is behaving appropriately. Perhaps this is why over 90% of American high schools use security cameras!
Video surveillance can help to make sure students and faculty are abiding by important school rules. For instance, security cameras can:
- Ensure important safety protocols are being met by all
- Help to maintain a drug-free school environment
- Dissuade bullying and other forms of student violence
- Assure safe and appropriate teacher-to-student interactions
- Deter rule violations, such as cell phone usage or aggressive behavior
6. Reduce stress
Lastly, security cameras can help ease the stress of faculty, staff, students, and families. By simply having security cameras on the school premises, people can rest assured that their children or family members are entering the safest and most secure school environment possible. Students and teachers will feel more safe and confident coming to school everyday. Faculty can make sure they are fostering a great school environment with the right precautions in place. This way, they can assure that they have a plan in place for any security issues that may occur.
Common Places to Install
Making sure to install security cameras in the right location at your school can be just as important as installing them in the first place! You must place each camera in a location that promotes good safety protocol, but also respects the privacy of students and teachers. Keep in mind that certain areas of your school grounds will be off-limits to install video surveillance due to an invasion of privacy.
The best place to install security cameras in your school is in common areas or areas with a lot of foot traffic. Here are the most common locations to install video surveillance at a school:
- Parking lots
- Hallways
- Cafeterias
- Main offices
- Classrooms
- Entrances and doorways
- Gyms
- Outdoor sports fields
- Recess areas
Make sure to avoid using security cameras in private areas, such as restrooms and locker rooms.
Best types of security camera systems for schools
There are many types of video surveillance cameras to choose from. In a school environment, it’s ideal to make sure cameras are inconspicuous, so they do not interfere with attention in the classroom and other normal school activities. However, you also want to make sure the cameras are efficient and recording as much activity as possible.
The most common types of security cameras for schools include:
Bullet Cameras
Bullet cameras, also known as “lipstick” cameras, are barrel-like video cameras. They are the most typical type of security cameras found in schools. They can be installed on walls and ceilings and pointed in a certain direction. Most bullet cameras produce high-definition, clear images, even in poorly lit areas. This makes them useful for outdoor areas and parking lots, as well. However, they are limited because they typically only record footage in one direction.
Dome Cameras
Dome security cameras are round and include a dark covering around the lens. These cameras can rotate and will allow you to film at a wide angle to allow for the maximum amount of security footage. They are also more discreet than bullet cameras, and usually blend in to their surroundings. This helps avoid the cameras feeling intrusive of normal school activities.
PTZ Cameras
PTZ cameras, also known as “pan-tilt-zoom” cameras, are versatile security cameras that are capable of providing maximum security footage. They are similar to dome cameras in appearance. But in addition to filming at a wide angle, they can also be moved directionally and zoom remotely or automatically. They can also be programmed to follow movement, which can be critical in the case of criminal activity. This makes them extremely useful for school environments.
Learn More
If you are in the market for a video surveillance system, make sure to compare the top video surveillance suppliers and manufacturers to find the best fit for your needs.
If you are looking for more ways to improve your school’s security system, make sure to give access control systems a look, as well. Take a look at our access control checklist to make sure your system is keeping your school as secure as possible. You can also look at assets like time and attendance systems to boost your school’s efficiency.
To get started comparing video surveillance systems for your school, simply visit us online and fill out our form. We will be in touch with you shortly to help you find the perfect video surveillance supplier for your school system!