Employee theft and customer accidents are two of the largest contributors to a business’s bottom line that can be controlled through the use of video surveillance equipment. Being able to dispute an accident claim with video evidence that the alleged accident did not occur in the way in which it is claimed, can save you money as well as your company’s reputation.

Video surveillance equipment has also been successfully used to counter claims of employee accidents to save money on insurance costs and to counter accusations. Signs advertising this security will increase its effectiveness, protecting the value of the secured vehicle or area itself.

Cameras act as an excellent deterrent and are extremely useful in the prosecution of criminals. Home security cameras catch them in the act. Cameras recording who comes to your front door and who is round the side or back of your home can be really off-putting for a burglar. Like alarms, systems vary greatly in cost and quality.

Knowing there are cameras present when shopping at the mall or in downtown area can give one much needed peace of mind. In addition, home video security systmes can often catch things going on around the home in the neighborhood or community one lives in.

Home security is among today’s top concerns for homeowners and business owners. Having the best security equals having a peace of mind. Home security is an issue to which we all need to give considerable thought. The combined amount of money lost in the 2.1 million burglaries in 2003 was 3.5 billion dollars.

Home security is important even if you have outstanding public safety agencies (police, fire, highway patrol, etc. Did you know that enhancing your home security is something you should look into right from the time you set out to buy a home or apartment.

Home security is becoming increasingly important to homeowners. The most common ways to protect your family and home are by installing a burglar alarm or security systems, security bars, surveillance cameras, driveway gates, security storm shutters, security safes, and fire protection devices.

Home security is something that can be put on the back burner right behind excitement, decorating, and house warming parties. Home security is an investment in everything you have ever done and everything you treasure. What good is saving money by deciding not to purchase a home security system when you cannot enjoy the things you have and your free time because you worry about thieves and intruders?

Home Security is a must especially if you live in easily accessible villages or exclusive but secluded areas. One must understand that security cameras in gates and other home security gadgets are not only for the rich and famous. Home security is the best way to reduce your chances of being burgled. A lot of burglaries are spur of the moment, as a burglar may see an open window or other easy point of entry and take their chance.

The use of a CCTV security system will increase security in the business itself and also around the premises of the building and any parking lots that are part of the property.

Crime sometimes decreases in monitored areas, but many criminologists argue that this is because criminals simply move their activities elsewhere. Crime continues to rise not just in a physical sense but also in the world of white-collar business. Security cameras have become a worthy ally to many in the detection and prevention of crime.

You can now manage visual information from virtually any place, anytime. CCTV stands for closed circuit TV, meaning that a set of cameras transmit directly to a set of TV monitors.

The advantage of wireless CCTV video security cameras is that the images are not broadcast, and thus the images and the system itself are much more private. There are many benefits to using a CCTV security system. CCTV security systems can be a single camera and monitor or they can be very elaborate. A more complex system may include hundreds of cameras, digital recorders, and multiple operators.

The day was great, shopping was incredible and now it’s time for the evening fun to begin. Decked out in new clothes, you and your companions are ready for an evening of excitement.

Before you leave the mall, someone suggests a short visit to the jewelry store to find a bauble or two that will accessorize all the new clothing. Not a bad idea. Do you spot a video security camera as you enter the store? You can be pretty sure you do! Many stores of this kind have quite an inventory of expensive jewelry.

But wait- you needs to stop at the ATM for some extra cash, (someone hit the sales a little too hard?) Take a close look and you may see the video security camera is taking in the entire transaction.

After dinner you are all ready to attend the newest art opening at one of the galleries. Quite a few of these galleries now use some form of video security as a way to protect the work of the artists.

The art opening was very inspiring and you have decided it’s time for a quick drink before you head to the casino. Look for the video security in the bar. Many larger bars have added video security systems as a way to monitor both employees and patrons.

It’s on to the casino for a chance to recoup some of the money spent earlier in the day. You can “bet” the casino will have an up-to-date video security system. They have a lot to protect and this type of system gives them the chance to watch the people in the casino and prevent problems before they become serious.

The day is drawing to a close. You tell your friends good-bye and head for home. Unfortunately you take a look at your gas gauge and notice you do not have enough gas for the return trip. One final stop at an all-night gas station. Any video security cameras in place here? Probably, especially with the price of gas; people have been taking off without paying. Robberies are also a possibility so it is highly likely you will be observed on a video security camera. Pay for your gas, wave to the camera and call it a day!

Before you even get out of your neighborhood you have decided that a cup of coffee is going to be absolutely necessary. When you stop at the convenience store at the end of your block for that cup of java, the video security system is in full swing.

If you live in a larger city, the video security may continue as you pull onto a busy, major highway. There very well could be cameras being used to keep track of traffic and monitor accidents and violations.

Pull into the underground parking garage and the use of video security is used to keep people safe and watch for incidents that could be problematic. Of course this means that your actions are being watched as well. Pull in a little too close to that car next to you and accidentally scratch the driver’s side on that Mercedes? Whoops! Caught on tape!

Before you meet your friends you need to make a stop at the bank branch that is conveniently located inside the mall. Here is a place where video security abounds. It is used to keep track of the actions of employees and to tape any type of possible robbery. These tapes are highly useful at trial because they often provide excellent documentation.

On to meet your friends and get started with the shopping spree. If you pay attention you will find that there is video security in many different places in the mall. There may be cameras in the common areas as well as in many of the stores. Video security is one way to keep an eye on shoppers who may have sticky fingers.

Well, you are about halfway through your day of shopping and fun. Have you noticed all the video security systems that are in place as you shop? Tune in for Part Two and see what happens as day turns into evening. The fun will continue and so will the video security!

When you need any kind of digital video security surveillance you will find there are many benefits that can be reaped with the use of such a system. Look into digital video security and you may find that some of these advantages may be helpful to you.

One advantage of a digital video security system is being able to detect, alert and dispatch when a threat is at hand. You can analyze the threat and act on it before the incident even takes place.

Another benefit is having a digital security system that can stand up to environmental demands that can be brutal. A good system can provide you with a video based security network that will monitor your critical assets and keep them secure in almost any situation.

Some digital video security monitoring systems can deliver a very wide surveillance capacity. This means that more locations can be monitored without additional staff. Some areas that are normally dark, cost prohibitive, or hazardous can often be monitored by some of the newer surveillance systems.

There are digital video security systems that are so sophisticated, they miss very little. This means your security is improved and errors are greatly reduced.

You will be able to find systems that provide digital video security that can intelligently detect a potential threat and automatically inform those who need the information. A team can then be dispensed to handle the situation.

Because these systems are being constantly upgraded and improved, your costs may actually be less. You will not need as many security employees and it is also less expensive to update an existing system rather than replacing the entire thing.

Digital video security is essential for many businesses and corporations. It can be used in casinos, banks, convenience stores and shopping centers. The benefits of using digital video security are many and as the technology continues to improve, the benefits and advantages will increase.

There may certainly be some hurdles to jump over to achieve a working partnership but there would be many benefits as well. Those who are responsible for the use of security on the campus, which includes digital video security often feel they will loose control if they work with the IT people. They may also worry about not understanding the technology employed in the IT department.

The IT folks may think that those in charge of campus security are old fashioned and not up on the newest technology. There are also times when the techies get so caught up in the latest technology that they don’t appreciate the older things that continue to work well and have proved reliable.

So, the question still remains; can these two groups get together and put their differences aside long enough to reap the benefits? Can those in charge of digital video security work with those who know all the latest technology?

Here are some of the benefits of the two areas working together:

Budgets can be shared. Instead of having separate budgets, neither of which cover all the needs, the budgets can be pooled and used for larger purchases such as updates on older digital video security systems.

Technology departments often receive grants to improve the network’s infrastructure. Colleges and universities may also budget for high-speed connections between campuses and buildings. Funds for digital video security equipment may be piggy-backed into this budget. In both situations, everyone wins.

When digital video security systems are not working properly, surveillance is greatly decreased. The campus police are busy taking care of campus security and may not have the time to troubleshoot or fix problems that are essentially technology situations. When the two departments assist each other, security is enhanced.

Campus security is a serious issue and digital video security systems are becoming more sophisticated. These sophisticated systems will improve campus security but they will require the expertise of those in the IT department.

The benefits of campus security departments working with those in IT departments far outweigh the struggles they may face at the beginning of the working relationship.

These situations have combined to make home security surveillance systems more desirable to people, and to cope with rising crime in many areas of the country. People feel less safe even when they are in their homes because of increasing crime trends. This is particularly true when the reported crimes start to encroach into neighborhoods that had once been thought of as very safe.

Another reason for the rise in popularity of security surveillance equipment for the home is that it has become much more affordable because of the great technological advancements that have been made. So, even average homeowners can afford to have a system that also includes such features as remote home security surveillance.

In addition, there are even portable surveillance cameras systems that have more recently come on the market for those who rent a home or an apartment, so they too can have a home security system. Most of these portable systems use wireless video surveillance cameras, so they are easy to install and also very easy to remove and reinstall at a new location as needed.

Another advantage of these wireless surveillance camera systems is that the installation costs are much lower than the traditional hard-wired security systems. In fact, many people are able to install these kinds of systems themselves, which once again helps to make them more affordable.

Home security surveillance systems are most often used to monitor the happenings around the exterior of the home. This allows the homeowner to know what is happening on their property, which is especially helpful if there has been evidence of an intrusion of some type. However, simply having an operating network of surveillance cameras can be a huge deterrent to crime in and of itself.

These surveillance camera systems can also be used to keep an eye on things going on inside the home. This can be helpful in a game room type setting where teenagers like to gather but want to be away from adult supervision. They can also be used in the case of having a babysitter in the home, as there have been many reported incidents of an abusive babysitter being caught by camera video surveillance, and many include audio surveillance.

One of the more recent innovations in security surveillance systems is the option of allowing the homeowner to view the video feeds from a remote location. It doesn’t matter if they are traveling half way across the globe or are just across town, they can see in real time what is going on at home with this surveillance software and an internet connection.

As most people know, burglar alarms are designed to help you detect break-ins and intrusions into stores or warehouses. When the alarm is tripped, a monitoring company is alerted and they are able to dispatch local police to the scene to handle the problems. Most systems also have integrated fire alarm systems and a monitor for that as well. Today, even the most basic systems also include video security system and even remote video surveillance, adding an extra layer of functionality.

Now is the time to dispel some of those myths and rumors so that you can make an informed decision about security systems based on solid facts.

Myth One: They are just too expensive to install and monitor. Not so these days. Costs have come down considerably in recent years and basic systems can be purchased and installed for a few hundred dollars, depending on the facilities needs. Monitoring is generally charged on a monthly basis and usually is under $30 per month.

Myth Two: It’s an unnecessary expense and won’t boost my bottom line. While it’s true that you may never have an incident, the fact is that the cost of one break-in will more than likely pay for the security surveillance equipment many times over. Also, your insurance company will probably give you a break on your insurance premiums if your business premises are protected by a burglar alarm system.

Myth Three: They are difficult to use and I don’t have time to train my employees. Actually good security systems are quite simple to use. If you can use an ATM, then you can certainly handle a burglar alarm system. The same applies for employees and typically a demonstration and training session will take less than an hour.

Myth Four: The system will be useless is the power goes out or the phone lines are cut. The reality is that any decent video security system will have sophisticated battery backup in case of a power outage and an integrated cellular line to back up your phone system. Both of these backup systems automatically kick in if problems are detected.

Myth Five: False alarms are too common and will get us in hot water with local authorities. A monitored system will first alert the monitoring center. They will attempt to contact you, or someone on your contact list, to determine if there is a real problem. This step keeps most false alarms from ever being reported to emergency agencies. If you entered the wrong code, then you will get a warning signal and still have time to re-enter the code.

If any of these concerns have been what’s been holding you back from getting a security surveillance system installed in your business, or from having a home safety security system installed, then debunking these common misconceptions should help you to make a more informed decision.

There are many ways that CCTV security is used and here are seven of them:

CCTV video security is used by banks and ATM’s as a way to keep an eye on what is going on in the bank and outside the bank as well. These cameras can show several areas at one time. When you are withdrawing money at an ATM, your actions are probably being observed. If the bank is robbed or an individual has money taken from them at an ATM, it may be captured on tape. This allows for prosecution and the subsequent punishment of those responsible.

CCTV security can be helpful in industrial situations. Some industrial plants have processes that are dangerous to human beings or take place in remote areas of the plant. CCTV cameras are used to increase security and safety.

Airports make use of CCTV security when they use the systems to keep track of people and luggage. Many areas can be observed at once which is helpful, especially in larger airports. Homeland security has certainly become an issue that can not be taken lightly.

Many homeowners are using CCTV security to protect their homes and property. When homeowners use this type of system they are able to see what is happening in the house and also on the grounds and in other buildings on the property.

Businesses and corporations use CCTV security to keep their businesses and their employees safe. Workers can be monitored and information, supplies, materials and products can be protected.

CCTV security is employed as a way to monitor traffic. Accidents may be recorded and vehicles can be tracked in cases of robbery or missing persons.

Beware if you are a shoplifter! Many shopping malls and specialty shops have begun using CCTV security measures. Theft is a big problem for many stores and they lose millions of dollars every year to theft. This is one way to deter theft and also to prosecute the thieves.

These are just seven instances where CCTV security can be used to monitor, deter and prosecute crimes.

CCTV is often used as a means of surveillance in areas where security is necessary. Casinos, banks, airports, jewelry stores and military installations are just a few of the places that make use of CCTV.

Privacy issues sometimes arise but CCTV is also used more often in public places. These cameras are often used now in shopping malls, underground parking garages, bars, restaurants and specialty shops.

Industrial plants have found that the use of CCTV equipment can help with the observation of places that are more remote or not comfortable for people. In these instances CCTV cameras can be employed from a control room and certain processes can still be observed.

The use of CCTV cameras in industrial processes is sometimes required by law and sometimes it is not. There are times when industrial processes are dangerous but they can be monitored by CCTV instead of by human beings.

CCTV can operate as a system that runs continuously or only when needed to monitor a particular situation. This is another aspect of CCTV that is useful.

CCTV is also used for the detection and prevention of crime. At one time is was used mostly by banks as a way to increase security and prevent robberies. Now it is easy to use and inexpensive as well, so CCTV is used in many other places. CCTV is used for home security and also for surveillance purposes.

The prosecution of crimes is an area that has been helped with the use of CCTV cameras. Crimes have been solved because the criminals have been caught on tape. Several murder cases have been brought to trial because of these cameras. CCTV cameras have been instrumental in bombing situations and they are also used to track the movement of children who have gone missing.

These cameras and systems can be helpful in the subway where operators of the machinery can’t always see everything that is going on. The same thing is true for those who operate amusement park rides.

CCTV has many uses and is especially essential when surveillance is needed or safety is a concern.

All kinds of businesses, schools and organizations use CCTV for security reasons. These cameras were first designed to increase bank security. The first CCTV security systems had low-definition cameras and they were crude. They only recorded in black and white and they were not even able to zoom or pan.

The CCTV security cameras that are being made and developed now are quite sophisticated and technologically advanced. Another new feature of these cameras is the size. The new CCTV security cameras are sleek and much smaller than the older models.

You will find that the newer CCTV security cameras produce really sharp color images that are of high quality. They also have motion sensors that can track movement. These CCTV security cameras have the ability to pick out a person in a crowd and lock on them. This enables the person to be tracked.

CCTV security cameras are used to discourage and deter crime. Suspects and events can be identified and monitored which makes it easier to detect and prosecute those who commit crimes.

Traffic is now being monitored with the use of CCTV security cameras. The cameras are installed and set to take pictures of license plates. This technology is combined with radar and speeds are recorded and pictures are taken. Traffic violators are then sent tickets.

CCTV security cameras come in many sizes and shapes and can be installed almost anywhere. At some point the CCTV security system will be an entirely computerized monitoring system. At that time a CCTV operator will not be needed.

CCTV security cameras are becoming more advanced all the time.

CCTV security Pro Security Camera: This CCTV security camera has great resolutions when visuals are important, maybe even the best. It is a good choice when you are looking for clarity in color or in black or white.

CCTV security Bullet Security Camera: You can use this camera either indoors or out. These CCTV security cameras are sleek and tiny and are sealed in a cylinder. They are also weatherproof which is a necessity in many situations.

CCTV security Dome Security Camera: These CCTV security cameras were designed to blend into places like retail stores, the entrances to buildings and shopping malls. They are dome-shaped and will provide security for various locations.

CCTV security Infrared Security Camera: When you need a CCTV security camera that allows you to see in total darkness, this is the camera for you. They also function well in situations where there is very little or no light.

CCTV security PTZ & Controllable Camera: You will be able to control this type of CCTV security camera by remote or through your DVR. You will have the ability to move the camera down, up, left and right. This camera has a zoom feature as well.

CCTV security Network IP Camera: If you need a camera that has advanced audio/video/graphic information over IP-based networks via wired or wireless communication media, this may be the camera for you. This camera is available in indoor, outdoor, infrared or PTZ controllable models.

Choose your CCTV security camera according to your needs.

With cameras located in front of the doors capturing the faces of people as they enter, as well as over the checkout counter aimed at the customer, a person planning to commit a crime may think twice before taking the risk of having their picture broadcast on the evening news. A person who is desperate enough to ignore the potential to get caught, will most likely find themselves getting a free ride in a police cruiser.

CCTV evidence is not limited to external theft, as many companies also use systems to keep their employees honest. Typically, a less than honest employee may immediately deny their involvement in an illegal act, but when confronted by the availability of video evidence, they will generally tell a different story. Most employers do not even show the employee the video, just being able to describe the specific action the employee took to commit the crime, is generally enough to get to the truth.

With almost three-fourths of all crime committed against businesses being committed by employees, CCTV is becoming one of the best investments a company can make in protecting its assets. While even the best CCTV system may not stop all crimes by employees, it does work as a deterrent and helps to keep honest employees from making a mistake.

With the digital age, there is no need for the expense of vide cassette tapes and large amounts of storage room. Many digital video recorders can store over 30 days worth of video from up to 16 cameras per unit and your home computer, if properly connected and configured, can be used to pull the video from the recorder with by the minute access available.

An additional benefit is being able to burn that video onto a DVD to hand to the police in the event of an illegal activity occurring on your premises. Most people looking to break into a house will walk away if they see a CCTV system on the outside of the home. It may only be a dummy camera and a wire that goes nowhere, but they do not want to take the chance. For those who really want to catch a potential crook, a residential CCTV system can be purchased and installed by the homeowner.

Whether you install cameras only on the outside, or in various parts of the interior will be your choice, but as many police departments have declared, video evidence of a crime in progress is the best method they have, short of a confession, of securing a conviction.

According to national statistics, employee theft makes up about 45 percent of a company’s losses and external theft about another 32 percent. Video surveillance equipment can help the bottom line on two fronts, first as a deterrent to theft and as a powerful witness to the crime in a court of law. In a majority of cases, when confronted with video evidence, a suspect will admit to their wrongdoing.

Video surveillance equipment has also been successfully used to counter claims of employee accidents to save money on insurance costs and to counter accusations, which could cause claims of your business offering an unsafe working environment. Typically a person who has filed a fake accident claim will drop it once they are aware a video exists, however since the claim was filed they may also be subject to prosecution by the insurance company for attempting insurance fraud.

Whether you are looking for video surveillance equipment to be used as a deterrent or as prosecution evidence, it can serve either role with perfection. Provided you have selected the correct equipment for the specific surveillance you want to conduct, the investment can offer a good return on protecting your property.

The good thing is that today’s equipment not only works together, it can be connected to your home computer network for monitoring from a remote location. For example, if you are away on vacation and have access to a computer, you could access your computer network and observe what is happening at your home or business.

The two main parts of video surveillance equipment are the cameras and the recording device. Cameras are available in many sizes and designs and some are offered in everyday items you would have around the home or office such as built into smoke detectors, flower vases, light fixtures and light switches. For those who want to deter crime, they can be left obvious to make people aware of their existence.

Cameras can be mounted inside or outside, in special weatherproof housings, with as many as 16 individual cameras connected to one recording device by using what is called a multiplexer. Through a typical multiplexer system, the individual camera views can be seen one at a time, or in individual pictures on your monitor screen. When played through a computer, the views can also be copied to the computer’s hard drive for later distribution to the proper authorities.

There was also a time when many doors were not locked and people knew and trusted most of their neighbors. We were willing to give people the benefit of the doubt. We also were able to judge many people on the way they dressed, their appearance or their manner. Video security was not even considered in most circumstances.

The times have changed and many of us do not know our neighbors. We may not be well acquainted with a majority of the people who work for us or with us. We can not leave our doors unlocked or answer the knock on the door without wondering who it is.

This is where video security comes in. It is a great way to help people protect their homes and their businesses. By utilizing video security the home and workplace can become safer places.

Because of all the changes in safety and the increase in home invasions, violent crimes and thefts in businesses, video security has become quite popular. When a video security system is installed in a business the owners will be able to watch their workers and customers. They will have a record of what is going on at all times if needed. This information is important for documentation purposes if a crime is committed.

Even in well-established neighborhoods and areas of expensive homes, crimes are committed. In fact, sometimes these areas are hardest hit because of the high-end furnishings, jewelry and electronics. A video security system can be used to monitor the entire property, therefore making an invasion less likely.

A video security system can be a life-saver.

Video security is used to protect homes, valuables, property and people. It is used when homeowners want to protect their families and their property.

Homeowners can use video security cameras outside in strategic locations around their property. Entrances can be covered, both front and back. Video security can also be used to track suspicious behavior on any other part of the property.

It used to be that video security was only used by people who were very wealthy. This is not the case anymore. Because of increased crime in many towns and cities, people of all incomes are utilizing video security protection. When you consider what you might lose in a home invasion or a theft the cost is worth it.

When you are installing a video security system outside you will want to make sure it is properly installed. The surveillance camera should be placed out of the elements so that it will not be damaged.

Video security protection for the inside of the house is also helpful. The camera can be placed in the locations in your home that make the most sense. Cameras are usually positioned at each of the doors to the home. This maximizes the effectiveness of the video security camera.

Another reason for video security protection is documentation. If a crime is committed in your home you will have a record of it. This evidence is readily available and can be quite valuable.

Video security protection is a wonderful tool that can be used to protect your home and the people you love.

One question to ask yourself is; what are you planning to monitor? Are you going to be monitoring the comings and goings of people? Will you be looking at vehicles? Is it important to see faces, merchandise or crowds? When you can answer these questions it will be much easier to choose the CCTV security components.

Another important question is this one; what type of picture quality do you need? Quality refers to both how fast the frame rate is and how detailed the image will be. The frame rate is a measure of how many individual pictures make up the video. What you see on T.V. and on VHS tapes is referred to as “full motion”. This is 30 frames per second. CCTV security systems usually record at slower rates. The slower rates give you rather jerky looking images but the upside is that this slower rate saves hard drive or tape space so that longer periods of time can be recorded.

You will also have to decide on the way your CCTV video security system will be monitored. Will you have an employee or employees who are watching the system for problems or will you just record at all times and review the tapes when problems occur? If you choose multiple cameras for your CCTV security system you will have the option of connecting each to its own monitor or you will be able to combine multiple images onto one monitor.

Consider these questions and you will be able to choose the best CCTV security system for your purposes.

CCTV security systems can be a single camera and monitor or they can be very elaborate. A more complex system may include hundreds of cameras, digital recorders, and multiple operators.

When you install a CCTV security system you will be able to avoid dealing with many of the thieves that strike businesses that are not prepared. This is a great deterrent for potential thieves. When they realize that your business is protected by a closed circuit television camera they may choose to go somewhere else.

Your business will not have as many problems with shoplifters. People who shoplift often think twice when they find out they may be caught on camera. The shoplifters who don’t know that the business is protected are often apprehended because of the CCTV security system.

The CCTV system can be used to monitor the cash registers. This is a good way to keep track of transactions and those using the cash registers.

You can identify employees and visitors. This is an important factor for many businesses.

Meeting insurance requirements is easier when you use a CCTV security system. You will also be able to record evidence that can be quite helpful in the case of accident claims that are not legitimate.

The use of a CCTV security system will increase security in the business itself and also around the premises of the building and any parking lots that are part of the property.

The benefits of a CCTV security system far outweigh the financial cost for business owners.