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University & Campus Crime DeterrenceCrime on campus is monitored and controlled by several different means. The most likely time for a student to be a victim of a violent crime is during transit from one building or areas of the campus to another. One way campus authorities combat this vulnerability is with physical guard patrols. Unfortunately it is not financially realistic to place a security guard in every area crime may occur. This reality is why universities and colleges are one of the largest consumers of video surveillance systems. Such systems provide a cost effective "eye" anywhere the authorities deem is an area of concern.
Surveillance technologies have greatly matured with the digital revolution. It is now affordable and preferred to install night vision security cameras viewing walkways, alleys, docks and any area where a student is in transit.
The video can be transmitted back to a central monitoring point by various means. The most popular means is IP or network based transmission. Since campuses have vast existing computer networks, it is expedient and cost-effective to transmit the video from campus-wide surveillance cameras using this technology. This reduces the cost and installation time considerably.
The variety of cameras available is impressive. The cameras offer various features including vandal resistant, nigh vision, pan/tilt/zoom and any combination of these features. One such camera with impressive performance is the EZTRACK PTZ camera manufactured by EZWatch Pro. This camera has the ability to "track" or follow movement automatically from one area to another.
While there are many surveillance-video companies which offer systems to schools and government. EZWatch Pro seems to have mastered this vertical market. Their "install-it-yourself" systems have proven to be a big hit with Universities IT and maintenance departments. The systems are shipped complete with everything you need to complete an installation. The school's maintenance or IT technicians perform the installation and are supported with online or phone technical assistance directly from the manufacturer. An impressive list of schools and government agencies which have utilized this technique can be found here.
The benefits of such systems can be very difficult to calculate simply because the first and most desired benefit is deterrence. The only way to calculate the deterrence benefit of a system is to establish crime statistics and trends before the installation and then compare the crime trend data before and after for a prolonged period of time. The other benefits of these systems are obvious, quicker response time and visual documentation of the event.
Many violent crimes that occur on campus are sensationalized by the press which creates the illusion that school campuses are not very safe. The fact is a school campus one of the safest public areas in this country. More information about University security and safety.
Oct-07-2009 08:12 AM
Home security systems have become much more available to the average consumer thanks to advances in digital technology. The result of this technology has been an explosion of demand for items such as surveillance cameras and alarm systems. And these home security kits are being used not only in homes and businesses, but in apartments and condos as well.
Oct-06-2009 08:49 AM
College campus are being targeting more and more by criminals due to easy access, abundant opportunities, and the relaxed atmosphere. If you attend college or you're the parent or guardian of a college student these products will enhance you or their safety on campus.
Oct-05-2009 08:46 AM
So you think someone is getting into your secret stash of Oreo's? Then a Hidden Camera (aka the infamous "Nanny Cam") may be just what you need. From keeping an eye on the babysitter to monitoring a sensitive area of your office, there are many uses for a hidden camera. As the name suggests, a camera is built into everyday objects so it is hidden. Some examples would be a smoke detector, lamp, air freshener, clock or just about anything else you can imagine.