Nottinghamshire Police

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CCTV surveillance

• CCTV should be used as part of an overall crime prevention scheme. It can be very effective when used as part of a crime reduction strategy;
  
  
• For CCTV to be effective in deterring crime – as well as helping to detect it – ensure cameras are visible. Display warning signs to publicise your security system to any criminals thinking of targeting your premises;
  
  
• Position a camera where it can record a clear head and shoulders picture of anyone entering the premises, such as a doorway. If your camera is pointing at an external doorway you must ensure there is sufficient backlight or you will only record a silhouette;
  
  
• A clear head and shoulders image of a suspect will provide strong evidence in a criminal prosecution;
  
  
• Place a marker on the doorframe filmed by the camera at 5ft 6in and again at 6ft from the floor. This will help the police to gauge the height of people on the video;
  
  
• Only record a maximum of 12 recordings per tape. The more you record repeatedly on a tape the poorer the quality of the recording, which will compromise the evidential value of any footage;
  
  
• You must ensure the video recorder for the CCTV system is secure. Thieves may try to steal the video recording equipment if it is not secure;
  
  
• If you are installing a CCTV system and recording footage of customers you must notify the Information Commissioner’s Office