The Role of CCTV Systems in Public Safety
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Closed circuit television (CCTV) is a television transmission system, which can be wired or wireless. It sends signals by cable (wired) to a monitor or directly to the monitor by radio waves (wireless). CCTV systems most often refer to security and surveillance camera systems.
The first CCTV system was implemented in the 1940s by a renown German engineer, Walter Bruch. Bruch used this new technology to observe the launching of V-2 rockets, as an aid to detecting and troubleshooting any malfunctions. Then in 1960s, the CCTV systems were introduced in the US in the city streets of Olean, New York, to discourage crime. The use of the video cameras made the city of Olean a pioneer in US of this crime-fighting technology.
Today CCTV systems are being used extensively to fight crime and to protect the public. As a result, its capabilities are constantly being improved to include more sophisticated technologies. A modern system can include cameras equipped with pan, tilt and zoom capabilities, as well as night vision, computer assisted operations, motion detection, and even face recognition. Plus, the camera casings are usually bullet-proof and have automated defense mechanisms to protect them from possible damage by intruders.
Today in the US, it is common for business establishments prone to security threats to use CCTV systems. Banks, convenience stores, large retail stores, for example, install surveillance cameras to discourage theft. With the large number of ATM’s across the nation, banks have gone a step farther and installed surveillance cameras at the ATMs as an additional defense against theft.
CCTV systems play a major role in the field of law enforcement and continue to “take a bite out of crime”. In addition to preventing, detecting, and even solving some crimes, CCTV cameras have been extended to assist law enforcement in civil matters as well. Speed cameras have been installed to monitor traffic violations, as well as traffic congestion, littering, and loitering.
With the rise of violence in schools, incidents of public shootings, and the ongoing threat of future terrorist attacks, the use of CCTV systems by all levels of government is significant. Surveillance cameras are used to heighten security in government buildings, airports, military installations, subway stations, hospitals, schools, and numerous other public facilities for enhanced security and public safety.
CCTV systems can be installed to provide safety features in transportation or recreational facilities. On a subway train, for example, the video cameras allow the operator to verify that the doorways are clear, before closing the doors and starting the train. Another example would be the operator of an amusement park ride. The CCTV system ensures that all riders are safely seated on the ride or safely exited the ride, before the ride is put into motion.
With the significant number of benefits of the CCTV systems, it is not surprising that the use of this technology has increased tremendously in recent years. In all areas of daily living, CCTV systems will continue to play a major role in protecting public safety.
Matthew Kerridge is an expert in business and home security. If you would like further information regarding cctv systems or are searching for a reputable cctv system company please visit http://www.adt.co.uk
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