As most HOAs can’t afford to have a security guard post-up at their communities’ entrances, installing a camera system is the security measure that’s usually taken instead.
Let’s take a look into 2 of the most commonly-used video surveillance methods in place at community entrances: CCTV cameras, and License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras. You’ll soon realize their shortcomings… and that a more effective overall security solution exists.
CCTV Cameras
Standard CCTV cameras placed at the front entrance of a community typically provide 2-3 weeks’ worth of video storage, and they’re certainly good for providing a baseline of security and some deterrence. However, many criminals today simply don’t care that they’re being video recorded while trespassing- since criminals can 1) cover up their identities with clothing, 2) keep their distances from cameras, 3) feel (rightly) that they usually can’t be identified as easily if they trespass at night, and 4) feel that the police won’t show up right away.
In addition, CCTV camera systems don’t allow communities to receive a rapid “Priority 1” response from Law Enforcement when an incident is called in (as these systems don’t typically meet “Video Verification” requirements). Thus, the deterrence effect of a standard CCTV system has always been limited.
License Plate Reader Cameras (“LPR”)
These devices are definitely a nice addition to have for community entrance security. However, there are some notable issues with using LPR cameras at community entrances.
For starters, many community members feel that LPRs are a constant invasion of privacy. Secondly, some criminals actually cover their license plates in advance of entering a community, negating the effectiveness of LPRs. Thirdly, LPRs are often only useful for evidence in tracking down a suspect after an incident has occurred in a community. Finally, LPR camera setups are typically pointed (or positioned) too low to pick up broader video footage of looming threats around the community entrance. This often necessitates additional standard-view CCTV cameras to be added to the LPR system. But even then, what if a person trespasses through the community entrance on foot- or by bicycle- and there’s no live security guard presently watching to deter (and/or report) them?
The Solution
Many have argued that the highest form of overall security is deterrence; the prevention of a crime from even occurring in the first place. This is where Live Guard Tech really shines.
The simple fact of the matter is that without real-live monitoring from a human being, many different types of threats would be left unchecked in real-time without a security guard in place… or without having a Live Guard Tech system on-site.
Check out a 90-second video of LGT’s surveillance method at liveguardtech.com
To schedule an appointment for a Live Guard Tech demo, or for general inquiries: Please contact Todd at vegas.mgr@liveguardtech.com
*A discount for an LGT system is offered to all HOA-USA members, through the code “TODD”
