Solution Topics

Churches and IP Video Surveillance

Topic: Churches

Churches are supposed to be places of respect and reverence. Unfortunately, not everyone sees them in this light and they are susceptible to crime. Whether it be teenage vandals or criminals looking for even the most paltry of items to sell to pawnshops and scrap metal dealers, churches are vulnerable to criminal activity just as anyplace else. One way to help protect churches from these threats is through the use of an IP video surveillance system.

Benefits of IP Video Surveillance for Churches

IP video cameras can be of great benefit to churches. Many IP cameras are very affordable and they are easy to install. For many of those who might be interested vandalizing or robbing a church, simply seeing a video camera present might be enough to deter them. After all, those seeking to steal from churches are rarely professional criminals, but rather adolescents and young adults looking for a bit of �fun� or a quick buck.

Churches are often left vacant for much of the time. Their primary activities occur only one, two or three days a week, and while staff is present many days, the facilities are often left unattended. This makes churches a natural target for crime. Through the use of IP cameras and IP camera software, however, any intrusions or break-ins can be monitored and alarms automatically activated, even if no one is on the premises. Alerts can be sent via e-mail or even to a cell phone to alert church staff of the trespass immediately.

IP cameras include built-in web servers, allowing their video feeds to be broadcast directly over a network, either local or the Internet. This makes remote monitoring incredibly easy. Church staff can monitor video surveillance feeds at any time from any computer with Internet access, also increasing safety.

Considerations for Picking IP Surveillance Cameras

When picking IP cameras for your church, be aware of where you will be placing them. If you are going to be using cameras out of doors in areas with potentially inclement weather such as storms, ice, etc., weather-resistant cameras should be used. Less resilient cameras will be all that is required for indoor spaces.

Cameras can themselves also be a target for vandalism. Many IP cameras exist which feature durable, tamper resistant casings that make vandalism more difficult and will ensure smoother operation.

One other risk to a video surveillance system is a power outage. Cameras, of course, can only work when they are powered. Unless you�re church has a backup generator, periods of outages could leave your church vulnerable.

Setup Advice for Church IP Video Surveillance Systems

Depending on your congregation, discretion may be important for the placement of video cameras. Some members of the congregation might not feel well about the use of surveillance cameras in areas such as the sanctuary. Make sure that all such decisions are discussed not only with church staff but also members of the congregation to make sure that everyone is on board with the surveillance system going into place.

Try to find the most vulnerable and insecure locations. If you have already become the target of theft or vandalism, areas where these crimes have occurred will be obvious places for the use of IP surveillance video cameras. Also look for other areas which might look inviting to thieves and vandals so that these areas are secure as well.

Outdoor cameras can be very useful for churches. This will give information to people entering the property, before they even reach the interior of the church. With advanced event management software, staff can be alerted to people trespassing on the grounds before they even reach the church itself.