Video Surveillance Systems Have Redefined Security
How Video Surveillance Technology Transforms Security Systems
Modern Video Surveillance transforms security from reactive recording to proactive threat prevention. Smart cameras now detect intrusions in real-time, alert monitoring centers within 15 seconds, and enable police response 3x faster than traditional alarm-only systems. This shift reduces burglary losses by 60-80% and cuts false alarm fees by 90%.
Why Traditional Security Recording Falls Short
Traditional video surveillance acted like a security autopsy – useful for investigation but powerless to prevent losses, especially for property owners who secure farm and acreage properties with remote locations. Business owners could review footage after break-ins, but couldn’t stop crimes in progress or verify genuine emergencies before costly false alarms.
Active Video Monitoring Changes Security Response
Some of the most exciting developments in video surveillance have come from re-imagining the role of a video camera as part of a security solution.
New video services, such as Video Enhanced Response & Video Alarm Verification allow the video cameras to play an active role in alarm response. With a live video connection between the camera and a professional monitoring centre, emergency response operators respond to alarms based on what they see in real-time within 10-30 seconds.
Real-Time Intelligence Delivers Measurable Results
This instant intelligence about an alarm allows for increased urgency when dispatching the authorities. Police prioritize verified video alarms, arriving 40% faster than unverified calls. The system can even deter burglars using voice-down communication over an integrated intercom, preventing 70% of attempted break-ins before entry occurs.
Video Surveillance Solutions for Different Security Needs
Small businesses (under 5,000 sq ft) typically need 4-8 cameras costing $2,000-5,000 installed. Medium businesses require 8-16 cameras ranging $5,000-12,000. Large facilities often need 20+ cameras with monitoring services costing $50-150 monthly per location.
Residential systems start around $800-2,000 for basic setups. Commercial-grade systems with professional monitoring run $3,000-15,000 depending on coverage area and feature requirements.
Video Cameras Become Essential Security Components
With video cameras providing actionable information about alarms, they have become an essential component of an effective security system.
Where the security industry has generally considered a video system an add-on to a security solution, this shift in mindset has changed the way we design a security system. Modern security systems are designed to prompt the best response in case of an alarm. Including a video component is now as natural as adding an extra motion sensor or glass break detector.
Step-by-Step Implementation Guide
First, assess your property’s vulnerable entry points – typically doors, windows, and high-value areas. Next, choose between wired systems (more reliable, harder to install) or wireless options (easier installation, potential signal issues).
Professional installation takes 4-8 hours for most businesses. DIY installation is possible but voids warranties and may miss optimal camera placement. Most systems integrate with existing security equipment within 2-3 hours.
Police Services Endorse Video Verification Systems
Not only does accurate response offer enhanced safety and increased likelihood of apprehension, it helps to reduce false alarm dispatches and the costs that may come along with them. Because of the incredible value a live video connection offers, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is encouraging alarm system owners to include video as part of their security solutions.
Some cities in Canada have already insisted that an alarm be verified with video before the authorities will be dispatched.
Investment Costs and Limitations to Consider
Video surveillance isn’t suitable for every situation. Rural properties with poor internet connectivity struggle with cloud-based systems. Older buildings may need expensive electrical upgrades costing $1,000-3,000 additional.
Monthly monitoring fees range $30-200 depending on service level. Budget at least $100-300 annually for system maintenance and updates. Power outages disable systems without battery backup ($200-500 extra investment).
Upgrading Existing Security Systems
Video Services can be employed on new or existing security systems to maximize the effectiveness of the current solution. Most alarm systems installed after 2015 support video integration without replacing existing equipment.
Expect 2-4 week lead times for professional installation. Integration with current monitoring services typically costs $50-150 in setup fees plus monthly service increases of $20-75 per location.