While CCTV surveillance on a campus can be an important part of security, it is not fail-safe - there are always risks that must be considered and dealt with before they become serious problems.

• Privacy issues - CCTV surveillance on campus can only be in public areas - dorm hallways, libraries, classrooms, and grounds are acceptable areas (and proper signage announcing video surveillance should be used). Bathrooms, break rooms, and dorm rooms are strictly off-limits for cameras.

• Over-reliance - Sometimes cameras give a false sense of security, but they cannot be used alone. Regular patrols and a physical security presence are necessary to deter crimes, and, to stop them in progress when possible.

• Tampering and other damage - Vandalism can ruin video surveillance, and create gaps in recording. Wear-and-tear, inclement weather, and power outages and surges can also have a negative effect on campus surveillance cameras.

Despite these risks, there are many benefits to adding CCTV surveillance on campus:

• Crime and vandalism deterrents - Campus CCTV surveillance systems help deter crimes of opportunity and vandalism. A monitored parking lot, for example, can deter break-ins and auto thefts.

• Protect students and assets - Evening classes, and traveling from the classrooms back to the dorm rooms can be hazardous situations for students, especially those who wind up having to travel alone. Cameras can help provide a safe watch for students to traverse these distances.

• Investigation and prosecution aids - Easy-to-search archives and large amounts of stored footage can provide invaluable details to identify criminals, and trace how crimes occurred.

• Enforcement of school policies - Ensure students, faculty, and staff are behaving appropriately and in accordance with school policies.

• Remote viewing and monitoring - Remote viewing from a central location or separate remote locations allows security to deploy appropriate staff for different times and locations. Logistics that were once difficult to predict and navigate can become much easier with this type of monitoring.

Because campuses are such diverse locations, sometimes sprawling in multiple areas, there are many points to consider when setting up CCTV surveillance systems:

• Building points of entrance and egress and parking lots are prime places for security issues. Ensure those areas are covered with cameras.

• Are there any pathways that have diminished lighting or are prone to being long, lonely walks? If so, CCTV surveillance is ideal for these areas.

• Common areas, stairwells, stadiums/gymnasiums, anywhere money is exchanged, and dormitory common rooms/hallways are also important places for surveillance.

• What are the problem areas on campus, such as poorly lit areas or staffing issues? When school is not in session, what amount of security is needed?

• What is the criminal history of the campus, and what issues need to be addressed (such as vandalism, robberies and break-ins, or assaults)?

Burglar alarms on campus, CCTV surveillance systems, magnetic card readers, and security patrols are all vital components of a comprehensive campus security system. Use CCTV surveillance systems in a way that enhances what is already in place.