Important information about CCTV

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems are an important weapon in the modern fight against crime. There are, however, some common problems that users need to be aware of.

The picture below is an example of what can happen when things go wrong. If the CCTV system that recorded this image had been correctly adjusted and properly maintained then it could have provided vital information that would have helped to catch a terrorist.

Ensuring this sort of problem does not occur is equally important whether it is a matter of stopping terrorists or a question of protecting your business or your home against robbery and theft. If you use CCTV to protect your premises you should check your system.

There are a few simple rules to ensure that CCTV is not rendered useless:

1. Change tapes daily
2. Use them no more than 12 times
3. Keep tapes for at least a month
4. Use good quality tapes and check them by playing them on a different machine
5. Ensure that the picture is clear - it needs to be clear enough to identify people and vehicles
6. Check that the time and date displays are correct
7. Check that the picture is covering the right area
8. Make sure there is enough light for the camera to give a proper picture

Your CCTV provider, security officer or local police crime prevention officer can help you improve your system.