A Guide to CCTV Systems

Many businesses now used CCTV systems to protect their premises, be a deterrent to thieves and provide valuable information to police. At Nightforce Security, we have installed a large number of CCTV systems in Kent, and we can advise you on the installation and maintenance of these security devices.

Before you spend money on a CCTV system, you should be sure what you want it for. Some uses of CCTV systems are fall under the Data Protection Act. If you are just using a basic system for security purposes, then the DPA will probably not apply to you, but it is worth checking if you have any responsibilities under the act before you begin using your system. The main types of usage that might fall under the DPA include where you can move the camera remotely and use it to zoom in and out on particular activities, where you use the system to monitor staff, or where you give the recordings to anyone other than the police.

In order for CCTV systems to be most useful, they should be regularly maintained, and used properly. In the event of a burglary or accident at your premises, the police and insurance company may want to look at your CCTV footage. If you have neglected to record from the camera, or if the picture is of a very bad quality because the lens is dirty or the system has not been set up properly, then you may reduce your chances of the crime being solved, or the insurance covering your total loss.

As installers of CCTV systems in Kent, we make sure that we can give our customers the best advice on how to get the most from their CCTV. You should always bear in mind the following:

-               Date and Time: It is important that these are accurately set, including updating for the beginning   and end of British Summer Time.

-               Light: If your camera is looking at an area that is not well-lit, the image will be impaired.

-               Tapes: Make sure you use the proper tapes and that they are good quality. Test them every so       often by playing them on a different video player.

-               Clarity: Your pictures must be clear. Make sure that the cameras are pointing in the right direction, the lenses are clean and the equipment is properly set up to get the best possible    picture. Clarity is also improved when the tapes are changed regularly.