Mobile surveillance systems are useful, as proven through the police force with the installation of dashboard cameras. But there is another vital area where mobile CCTV systems are needed - the school bus. Millions of children are transported via school bus on a daily basis during the school year, and protecting your charges is the number one reason mobile surveillance is a must for school buses.

There are two risks that need to be considered when applying mobile surveillance to your school buses:

• Impairment to recording: Bad weather, accidents, and everyday use over time can cause damage to mobile CCTV systems, creating interruptions in recording activity.

• The "crutch" effect: Mobile surveillance is a great tool for school buses, but they can never replace other security measures and the effects of a vigilant bus driver. Use security cameras in concert with current systems in order to enhance them.

While there are some risks associated with mobile surveillance systems, the benefits make those risks well worth it:

• Protection: Mobile CCTV systems enable the bus driver to monitor excited children who accidentally violate bus safety rules and keep them safe while they can maintain their eyes on the road. These systems also allow you to monitor drivers to ensure that they are obeying all laws and safety regulations appropriately - such as stopping before all railroad crossings. Another way mobile surveillance protects children and assets is by being able to catch those who illegally pass a bus when it is stopped. When mounted correctly, these cameras can get license plates so that steep fines can be assessed and send the message home that safety is a number one priority when it comes to your school.

• Remote viewing: Mobile surveillance can be set up to network cameras that can be monitored at a central location, or in multiple remote locations. Wireless IP systems can transmit violations of safety instantaneously, meaning that violations can be corrected sooner, rather than later.

• Smart Video Analysis: Modern cameras can be programmed to automatically zoom in on license plates and capture them accurately - meaning no one will have to rely exclusively on driver memory or video quality in case of an emergency situation.

• Community relations: Not only does having mobile CCTV systems increase your image among the community for your dedication to safety, you can partner up with community security firms for low-cost and no-cost systems in exchange for free advertisements.

There are several questions and considerations when setting up mobile surveillance for school buses:

• What is the size of the fleet, and how many cameras will be needed for each bus? Cameras installed inside will need to cover all seats, and cameras installed outside will need to cover blind spots as well as the road in front of the bus.

• Are there any drivers who have experienced problems with children or other vehicles?

• What has been the main concern over the past year with safety?

• Are there any current incidents you wish you had caught on video?

Overall, cameras, in concert with alert and responsible bus drivers, play a great part in school bus safety and monitoring driver and children behavior.