Camera confusion

Modern technology can strengthen both safety and security when it is used thoughtfully. Some security apparatus, such as closed-circuit television, or CCTV, used to be reserved for the ultra-rich or seen only at large-scale commercial operations. This security feature is now available to all of us.

Wi-Fi-enabled doorbell and perimeter cameras are an excellent addition to a comprehensive residential security strategy.

“Comprehensive” means a camera and other things, like perimeter fencing, motion-activated lights, reinforced locks, an alarm, a dog, a real plan for intrusion, etc. A favorable aspect of the doorbell product is that it allows the homeowner to see who is at their home and verbally challenge the individual before opening the door to find out.

Remember, it is always best to verbally challenge through a closed and locked door before allowing someone you do not know into your space.

But what about the use of traditional CCTV security cameras by organizations, businesses, schools and houses of worship? During most physical security assessments, the cameras are present, but the understanding of their role in a comprehensive protective strategy is missing. Organizations often install cameras because they are relatively cheap to install, have some deterrent value and often make people and organizations feel good. “See, we have cameras there and there,” they say.

But who is actually watching the camera feed?

The answer to that very important question is often something like: “Well, I have a monitor on my desk, and so does Pam, and Gerald will watch occasionally when he is here.” This is not security.

If no one is actually trained and in charge of watching and maintaining the cameras each day, and the footage is recorded somewhere, this is known as an investigative camera. Investigative cameras are utilized to gather evidence after a crime has been committed in the hopes of catching the offender. Not great for a victim or an organization in the moment.

To improve upon the situation, organizations can take steps to make these real security cameras. Security cameras are watched in real time by someone with actual training to stop activity before it starts or minimize the damage once it begins. They have policies and protocols in place to observe and take effective action.

If you are a decision-maker in your organization and notice that you have cameras on the property, but no one is actually watching them or it is some type of shared responsibility among different employees, improve the situation. Just like any other area of effective organizations, someone needs to own the responsibility. They also will need to own the policy, the maintenance and the planning for upgrades.

There is nothing wrong with cameras. They are very effective when they are utilized as part of a comprehensive security plan. But if an unwatched camera is the beginning and end of your security plan, you do not have a security plan.

James Hamilton is a nationally recognized security expert with more than 34 years of protection experience. He is a former FBI Special Agent and created the close protection training for the FBI. He is the founder of the Hamilton Security Group and can be contacted at: www.hamiltonsecuritygroup.com.