Security cameras are one of the most effective deterrents to crime for businesses and homes. Effectively placed CCTV can increase the safety of your premises, and give you peace of mind that any risk has been identified and reduced. The number of security cameras you should install depends on the nature and size of your premises. Identifying the spots where CCTV should be installed is a good way to assess how many cameras you need.
Entrances and Exits
Entry and exit points are the most obvious places for security cameras. This allows you to monitor people entering and leaving your building with ease, so you should make sure that every access point is monitored including fire exits.
Points of Obstruction
Narrow passages, often referred to as “traffic choke points” are useful areas for fitting CCTV as they might not always be clearly visible. Keeping these areas under surveillance ensures that you always have a recording in case of an accident or an emergency in the area.
Money and Key Assets
Any tills or other areas where money is exchanged are places to have a camera installed. These spaces tend to attract the most crime, so be sure to have a slightly wider field of view to capture the whole area. Having a camera on every till also helps to ensure the safety of your staff by making sure they are monitored at all times. Products for sale and valuable materials are also hot spots for criminal activity. To avoid theft, fixed cameras covering every angle of your key assets are advised.
Outside Areas
Wide angle views of outside areas can provide extra reassurance. Avoid panning cameras outside as these can be easily observed, allowing criminals to work out how to slip past without being seen. Cameras with overlapping fields of view are ideal as this ensures optimal protection and coverage with no corner left unwatched.
