With fears of active shooter incidents, sexual assaults, and other forms of violence at an all-time high, the importance of campus safety is a growing concern across the country. As such, it is not surprising that video surveillance is now being embraced on all types of campuses. According the 2016 Campus Safety Video Surveillance Survey, more than 90% of the healthcare, K-12, and higher education campuses surveyed have video surveillance equipment installed as part of their security efforts. Of those, 79% noted that they intend to purchase more camera systems over the next three years. Even the respondents that did not currently have any video surveillance in place, recognized the need, with more than half planning to purchase cameras over the next three years as well.

The safety and security benefits of having video surveillance systems on campuses have certainly been substantiated. In a past post, we shared how a surveillance camera in a Maryland high school stairwell prevented a rape from occurring, and the Campus Safety survey respondents shared examples of successes they have experienced with their surveillance systems, ranging from medical emergencies, to risk management, even bomb and shooting threats. Many also reported their surveillance systems as being an “invaluable tool” in making arrests and providing evidence in court proceedings.

In one dramatic incident shared, administrators were able to determine that the suspect in a stabbing had yet to leave the building that it was reported in when officers arrived. This was determined based on reviewing footage for a person leaving the building who matched the description given by the 911 caller, which was not seen. The officers on scene performed a thorough room-to-room search and located the suspect hiding in one of the rooms. Thanks to the effective and efficient use of the surveillance system, the assailant did not get away, and was prevented from inflicting more harm across the campus.

These survey results are encouraging, as it seems that nearly all security personnel, and the larger education and healthcare campus communities, are now embracing the benefits of video surveillance on campuses. If you are interested in learning more about installing or upgrading video surveillance technology at your facility, we would be happy to provide a one-on-one consultation to answer any questions and help you determine what might be the best system for you. Please reach out to our Surveillance Systems Integrator, Jeff Hinckley at 207-450-3637.