Why should schools use video surveillance?
Before secondary and middle school officials install video surveillance systems to prevent vandalism, gang activity, fights, trespassing or theft, they must sit down and conduct a thorough inventory of their needs and security concerns. Important first questions to ask include: What security threats will the new cameras address? How will the surveillance equipment address those threats? How will the system be maintained and staffed? After this step is completed, school officials must weigh the benefits and costs of their decision. Most school districts agree that installing video surveillance equipment will help students focus on their studies and not make them worry about outside violence. The security systems run from $500,000 per district for an analog system consisting of CCTV (closed circuit television) monitors to million-dollar IP-based systems with digital surveillance cameras connected to a web network. The system cameras are generally placed near entrances, hallways, stairwel
