In the news recently is Baltimore County’s $3.7 million security system project for elementary schools. After an unfortunate on-campus shooting incident in 2012, plans of heightening security have been in the works and are finally being implemented. As we have previously discussed, security cameras on school campuses proves to be a troublesome topic. While most are in favor of this new security system, there are still others who believe it is an invasion of privacy and a waste of funds.
This project would install at least 3 security cameras at 107 elementary schools along with door locks and card readers. From the security cameras, police would have remote access to a live feed and floor plans. Supporters of the plan believe it will promote safety and help authorities respond in a timely and appropriate manner.
With students aware of being monitored at school, this may change their behavior and could potentially correct misbehavior or decrease bullying on campuses as well. However, this may cause concern to those wary of the security cameras use. The cameras can instill an inappropriate fear, and, in a sense, be “bullying” students to act a certain way. While it may get the job done, how ethical is the method?
Also, will having our children under constant surveillance be too imposing? Some believe it is the direction our society is moving toward so, in a way, we are simply preparing our children for the future. On the other hand, what happened to rights and privacy? How are parents’ concerns being addressed?
Opposition also stems from the cost of the project. Supporters believe the money is being put to good use, while others believe the money can go towards bettering the education system. In this case, the debate becomes safety versus education, which would be a no brainer for most. Essentially, these two go hand in hand; safe environments promote education as better education leads to a smarter, safer future. Parents need to feel comfortable sending their children to a safe school to get a proper education.
As technology advances, security cameras have the potential to become more commonplace nearly everywhere. Those against Big Brother-like surveillance may still fight against it, but it seems we are headed towards a high security, high surveillance existence. We would love to hear your comments on the topic – share them with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or Pinterest.
For your security cameras and security systems needs, visit SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a ring at 1-888-203-6494. We’re happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
Keeping your property or business safe is a priority and security systems can help, but only if they are properly functioning. Routine maintenance becomes vital to maximize your security system’s potential. Keep the following tips in mind when utilizing a security system.
While you can schedule your provider to come out to do a maintenance check on your system, it may cost money and scheduling an appointment can be troublesome. Conduct these simple checks regularly and eliminate the need to call your provider. System checks should be done every few months, but it may yield better results if done more frequently.
If your surveillance system is a few years old, you may need to make sure it’s working at all. Take a look at your connections – is everything plugged in? Do any wires or cable connections look loose, old, or worn out? If so, it may be time to do some replacing or upgrading.
Power is an important factor for your system. Your system can be in tip-top shape, but without a reliable power supply, your system simply won’t work. Power outages and unexpected power surges can impede performance as well. Be sure you are properly connected to your power supply. If your power supply is old, or connections don’t appear as secure, a new power supply may be necessary.
Examine your security cameras. They may have moved slightly which can throw off your view. Reposition your cameras as needed and check your resolution and frames per second (FPS) to ensure a clear, relevant picture. Also, be mindful of dust – keep your cameras clean so that dust or other particles don’t interfere with the camera lens, compromising proper footage. If you have outdoor cameras encased in housing, be sure to keep the lens clear. If possible, open up the housing and check for any build up or possible wear and tear. Serious problems can result in the need for replacement.
When it comes to your DVR, be sure that you are recording what you want or need to record. Too often people fail realize that they aren’t actually recording. Another problem could be that the footage was recorded over. Be sure you have sufficient space to keep your recordings to avoid losing possible evidence. Optimizing your system will result is the best picture using a minimal amount of space. This will help you get more out of your recording time. You may need to reboot occasionally if you have a digital based DVR – this will allow a rest period and a chance to update if available.
If you encounter any larger problems, it would be wise to contact your provider to alleviate the situation. Otherwise, these tips should help keep your system performing at its best and avoid preventable replacement expenses.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us online at SecurityCamExpert.com or via phone at 1-888-203-6294. We’re always willing to help you find the best security camera or security system for you, and provide you with appropriate assistance.
Shopping on a budget for a security camera system? It doesn’t have to be that hard. Let SecurityCamExpert.com help you find smart solutions without breaking the bank.
Our selection of security cameras includes a variety of different styles with varying specifications. We carry security cameras starting as low as $20-$60 and reaching up to $250-$400 depending on specifications. You can pay for better quality and features, or you can get good quality for a decent price. It all depends on how much you can or are willing to spend.
For the most basic security system solutions, you can opt for dummy cameras. Our dummy cameras don’t exceed $30 so you can build a pseudo security system for cheap. Check out this SecurityMan Dummy Indoor Camera, it has a convincing look for a reasonable price.
If you want a functioning security system, dome security cameras and bullet security cameras are common types and low in price. Ours range from $40-$175, all dependent upon picture resolution, special features like night vision or audio components. Still, a great camera can be found for a cost-effective price. Our box cameras hover around the same range, but also require a separate purchase of camera lenses, which can add to overall cost.
As we move up the price ladder, our specialty security cameras like HD-SDI, high resolution, network IP and PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) start around $100 and go up from there. It should be understood that you are paying more for performance and abilities. These cameras offer much better picture and allow you to better manipulate your viewing range. License plate capture cameras have magnificent zoom abilities along with solid resolution, so they can start north of $200.
While SecurityCamExpert.com offers individual security cameras, we also offer great packaged deals which can significantly assist those on a tight budget. Our camera packages include the basics: DVR (with & without hard drives), cameras, cables and power supplies. Our 4 camera packages range from $249 up to $549, while our 8 camera packages range from $329 up to $567. Our 16 camera packages range from $836-915, but we also offer wireless camera bundles that start as low as $139 and up. Our 4 camera IP/hybrid camera package starts at $399 and you can add more cameras or accessories from there. You can explore our packages options here.
Shop our inventory online and you’ll find security cameras or systems that fit within your budget. Would you rather get a quote based on your needs? Fill out our Free CCTV System Quote and work with our staff to create a security system within your means. Feel free to call us at 1-888-203-6294 with any questions you may have.
Privacy has always been an issue with security cameras, and lately security cameras seem to be popping up everywhere. Citizens are concerned about their privacy and freedom; being scrutinized under a watchful eye is not a comfortable feeling. To intensify their worries, police are now trying to tap into the private security cameras to help obtain footage of crimes.
In San Jose, a proposal is in the works where homeowners can voluntarily register their private security cameras and be added to a database. This database of home surveillance will help the police easily locate security cameras with potential footage of a crime. Police would have to get permission to remotely access the person’s surveillance footage.
There are people against this proposal, worried that this gives police too much access and fear a Big Brother situation. They say footage will only be accessed with permission and won’t continuously be monitored, but how can people be sure that officers will abide by that? Others worry that police are monitoring footage in order to find problems rather than solving crimes. And how will this affect work ethic? Will access to these cameras result in officers relying on footage and slacking on their duties?
While these are legitimate concerns, residents should consider the benefits they can reap from it as well. Other areas have implemented similar plans and they have proven to be effective, with crime rates declining. Officials also assure that footage is not continuously monitored, instead, when a crime occurs, police will reference the map to find cameras that could possibly contain pertinent footage. Using this map is much easier and less time consuming than going door-to-door trying to track down footage. Lastly, the program is voluntary not mandatory – those against this proposal can opt out.
It’s obvious that much needs to be discussed about this proposal, as both sides have valid points. If these programs continue to be successful we may begin to see more and more areas implementing a sort of “crowdsourcing” of surveillance footage. But then again, if it were to spread, would we be growing toward a Big Brother situation?
Topics of privacy versus security will continue to be an ongoing debate. Please share your thoughts on this topic – connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ or Pinterest. For your security camera & equipment needs, visit our store online at SecurityCamExpert.com or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.
Hospitals are often associated with recovery from illnesses. Patients are vulnerable because they are usually in a weakened state. It seems almost absurd that these facilities for healing would ever be targeted, but sadly they are. Every so often you may hear a story of an attempted kidnapping of newborns, stolen laptops containing sensitive information about patients or even shootings within the premises. The fact of the matter is these hospitals need comprehensive security to keep the patients as well as the workers safe.
There are many facets when discussing safety. Visitors must check in to prevent possible trespassers. This, of course, is to keep both staff and patients safe and protect the privacy of health information. We must also keep the patients safe from possible abuse from staff. In the same strain, the staff must be kept safe from aggressive patients who may attack.
Patients can benefit from security cameras because it is not fiscally feasible to have a 1:1 ratio for staff and patients. The security cameras act as an extra pair of eyes. Monitoring the feeds may help find a distressed patient before it’s too late. The cameras may also catch suspicious activity or unwelcome visitors who have somehow bypassed check-in.
The security cameras can improve productivity because employees are aware they are being monitored, and can aid in resolving disputes between coworkers. It can also save employees from false claims, providing clear video evidence of the occurrence.
While they have numerous benefits, security cameras can run the risk of over reliance. Workers may depend on the cameras rather than actively checking on the patients, making them susceptible to a negligence claim. Because the security cameras are obviously being implemented, they may be open to tampering or manipulation. As with any type of monitoring, privacy issues arise. So long as the cameras comply with legal standards, they can be utilized ethically and efficiently.
Placement of security cameras in the hospital setting can make or break the security system’s effectiveness. Security cameras should be installed both inside and outside of the building. Both public and restricted access entrances/exits should also be under supervision. Because of the possible dangers, stairwells and elevators should also be monitored. Security cameras in the hallways will prove helpful as most traffic occurs there. Lastly, installing cameras in parking lots and loading areas will help catch any suspicious activity outside.
The benefits of security cameras in hospitals can outweigh the disadvantages if utilized properly. Feel free to browse our selection of security cameras at SecurityCamExpert or give us a call at 1-888-203-6294.
Abuse is an ongoing problem and awareness is an important measure to prevent it from happening. Child abuse is always on the radar and on people’s minds, thus nanny cams have gained popularity. But often overlooked are the elderly who can become just as vulnerable with declining health and increased risk for dementia. Nanny cams can be just as helpful with your elders and their caregivers.
Commonly, the help of caregivers are enlisted within the home, so nanny cams and hidden cameras can be extremely beneficial, monitoring activity when you cannot be there. The elderly may also be placed in convalescent homes or assisted living communities. These facilities may or may not utilize security cameras, so it is best to inquire and do extensive research beforehand.
Elder abuse can take various forms, whether it is physical, verbal, emotional or financial abuse or neglect. They can be exploited, berated, or forced to sit in filth because they cannot help themselves. We fight to keep our children safe but we must also protect our parents and elders.
Our best measure to prevent elder abuse is to catch it early. If you have an in-home caregiver, do a thorough background check. Strategic, covert placement of nanny cams or hidden cameras around the house can help to catch any wrong doing. It is also important to watch for warning signs such as a change in mood or affect, or signs of physical trauma in the form of bruises or bed sores. Listen to what they have to say and take note of body language, especially around the suspected abuser.
Another factor to consider is that the abuser is often a family member. Be wary of the warning signs as well as suspicious behaviors. Nanny cams and hidden cameras can show you how the caregivers act while you’re away and will subside or prove any suspicions you may have.
With the footage from the nanny cams or hidden cameras, you can build a case against the abuser and be sure that justice is served. With children and elders alike, we want to protect them from harm and nanny cams or hidden cameras can help to provide a sense of safety.
Visit SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our recently updated stock of hidden cameras & nanny cams. For any questions about our inventory, call us toll-free at 1-888-203-6294.
Controversy has surrounded the safety of our kids in school, but lately problems have been arising with the use of security cameras on school campuses. Will it provide safety or does it impose on privacy? Will they be effective or an expensive nuisance?
Implementing security cameras in schools is an ongoing debate with strong opposition from both sides. While vandalism and theft are a major concern, more serious problems like bullying, abuse and safety overall seem to outshine the rest. With recent and unfortunately common reports of dangerous situations on school campuses, security cameras seem to be wise option for most.
Strategic placement of security cameras on school campuses can help monitor who comes on campus, and watch for any misconduct. Also the presence and knowledge that students are being surveyed may discourage them from misbehaving. But on the other hand, students may learn where blind spots exist and use that to their advantage.
To the same effect, certain areas like restrooms and locker rooms are off limits. Some may argue that security cameras only monitor certain areas, and bad behavior can still occur despite the presence of cameras. Another opposition would be the privacy of the students, and therein lies more problems. Who has access to the surveillance? How will the footage be used? How secure is the connection? Can a hacker intercept the feed and view the footage?
Cost is yet another aspect of this discourse. People in favor of installing security cameras may agree with spending a substantial amount of money to protect their children. But those against the implementation may believe that the funds for the endeavor could go towards improving children’s education.
As evidenced above, many factors apply to the decision of using security cameras on school campuses. Lately, more and more schools are adding them to their security system. The idea is something to think about. We would love to hear your thoughts – join us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, & Pinterest.
If you have any questions or are looking to purchase security cameras or security equipment, please feel free to contact us at 1-888-203-6294 or check out our inventory at SecurityCamExpert.com.
Dome security cameras have been in demand lately. This spike in sales and usage is most likely due to its compact design and cost-effective prices. But just because these cameras are affordable does not mean they skimp in the features department.
You can find dome cameras equipped with fantastic features for a reasonable price. PTZ (Pan, tilt, zoom) capabilities are common in dome cameras. This allows a single dome camera to reach a wide viewing range, possibly eliminating the need for multiple cameras in a given area. The zooming abilities can zero in on specific details which can be significant in identifying a culprit.
The inconspicuousness of the dome camera is often cited as a selling point. Truth is, nowadays, you know a dome camera when you see it. The tinted dome covering is a more optimal feature of the dome camera. While the actual camera is easy to spot, it is nearly impossible to tell which direction the lens is pointed. Furthermore, some dome cameras employ a tracking component, so a person could not suspect the camera is tracking his or her movements.
Due to varying light in different settings, dome cameras usually have infrared, low light or day/night vision to produce better pictures throughout the day and night. The IR irradiation distance depends on the camera so paying close attention to specifications is important.
Most dome cameras are vandal proof, adding built in security to your camera investment. If the environment permits, you may be able to install your dome camera out of reach to minimize the possibility of vandalism. However, in some areas, it is inevitable to place the dome camera on a wall or a low ceiling. The vandal proof, tinted dome then comes into play, protecting your camera from any possible damage or destruction from powerful blows.
Often referred to as the “eye in the sky,” dome cameras offer functionality in an appealing package. If you have any questions regarding dome cameras, please call us at 1-888-203-6294 and our staff will gladly assist you. You may also visit us at SecurityCamExpert.com to browse our inventory of dome cameras and more.
Since bullet cameras are generally inexpensive in the realm of security cameras, they are commonly used in surveillance systems. Because of their more obvious nature, their presence alone can decrease any foul play. Bullet cameras can be useful in various environments, such as a restaurant setting. Whether it’s a small Mom-and-Pop, Hole-in-the-wall restaurant or a large, well known chain, these establishments will benefit from a security camera system.
Installing a security camera system in your restaurant enables you to monitor your employee’s activity while you’re away. Detect any wasteful habits, horseplay, or theft. Placing a bullet cameras at different areas and angles aimed directly at the cash register should deter your employees from trying to pocket extra cash.
Aside from keeping an eye on your employees, these security bullet cameras are there to protect your employees and customers from potential dangers. Workers are often at restaurants well after closing time to clean up and reconcile the register. Late nights are when criminals usually like to strike – limited lighting makes it harder to be identified. If there are bullet cameras installed around the perimeter of the building, criminals may be deterred. If they do act, you have video surveillance to help police identify and capture them.
On the other hand, customers could be wary of businesses utilizing bullet cameras. People may interpret the presence of security cameras as the business being in a dangerous area. Some people just dislike the idea of being watched in general. The benefits of bullet cameras seem to outweigh these negative connotations. Your investment in security cameras help cut your losses due to thefts and robberies while keep patrons and workers safe. Feel free to shop our selection of security bullet cameras and more at SecurityCamExpert.com or call us toll-free at 888-203-6294.
An ordinary wall clock is an ingenious disguise for nanny cams. Functioning as a normal clock, a wall clock hidden camera is perfect since wall clocks are such a commonplace item in any room. With its convenient features, the SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera can help you monitor your home or small business.
Whether you are suspicious about your nanny or your kids, employing a wall clock nanny cam enables you to observe any activity when you’re not around. The SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera is an ideal candidate if you’re shopping for nanny cams or hidden cameras. This wall clock nanny cam captures color video, combats wireless interference, and is easy to install. The installation of this wall clock nanny cam involves minimal work – simply mount the wall clock nanny cam in the desired location and connect to a power supply. The clock itself takes AA batteries, but the camera requires an AC power adapter. Next, in relation to the wall clock nanny cam, the wireless receiver should be no further than 330ft in open space, or 100ft indoors. Maintaining a clear line of sight will aid in better wireless transmission, providing a more efficient wall clock hidden camera. The wireless receiver needs to be connected to a monitor for live, high quality color feed and you’re set! You can add a micro SD card for added recording memory (up to 32GB; not included). Additional receivers may be added so you can monitor from another room, however, additional wall clock nanny cams are not supported.
The benefits of hidden cameras and nanny cams can be quite significant. Have you noticed things missing in your home? Curious about what your kids do while you’re away? Nanny cams can capture all that activity and more, giving you hard evidence of theft or misbehavior. There have been far too many instances of child abuse and neglect with baby-sitters. Employing nanny cams could possibly prevent the abuse or catch it early before the repercussions worsen. If you even have the slightest suspicion, installing nanny cams is the easiest way to help keep your children safe so you can feel at ease.
Without costing an arm and a leg, the SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera can give you a sense of security. Wall clock nanny cams are perfect for hidden surveillance since people would rarely question the presence of a clock in a room. As technology advances, hidden cameras and nanny cams can be implanted in the most unassuming, mundane objects. Check out the SecurityMan Wall Clock Hidden Camera at SecurityCamExpert.com and find more options for nanny cams. If you have any questions regarding nanny cams or security cameras in general, call us at 1-888-203-6294.