Do You Need Vandal-Proof Cameras?

What Vandal-Proof Means

Vandal-proof security cameras have many different characteristics. They can include the following:

• Shatter and impact-proof plastic shielding that is certified to meet international standards
• Recessed screws and bolts that cannot be opened with a standard screwdriver
• Metal housings
• Tamper-proof anchors to ensure they cannot be knocked down off a pole or ceiling
• Reinforced mounting brackets
• Cabling protection that makes it impossible for a vandal or criminal to severe camera cables

Each of these attributes accomplishes the following in the effort to make your system as impregnable as possible. In addition to these, however, you also have to have a strategic and tactical security camera installation plan that minimizes the ability of someone trying to tamper with or destroy your cameras to do so. This is best done with the help of security system professionals who understand the different ways criminals try and disable a security system.

Who should Have Vandal-Proof Security Cameras

Obviously, some venues need vandal-proof cameras more than others. Whether you need vandal-proof security camera installation really depends on two things: Is the camera placement easily accessible and is there a high likelihood that your security cameras would be damaged by an intruder, assailant, robber or another type of criminal? For example, the public areas of a casino need expansive surveillance that cannot be tampered with in any way, shape or form. Their tamper-proof needs also extend to the casino floor, hotel hallways, elevators and any other non-casino places. Conversely, a parking lot at an arena, where the cameras are posted high above the ability of all but the most determined to reach, probably do not need to be vandal proof.

Cabling

One area that is critical to vandal-proofing a security system is the mount and cabling system used. This is often overlooked as part of the security system, but it is truly the lifeline for the entire system. The best cameras in existence are useless if they cannot transmit their imagery and video stream to a data repository. Fortunately, there are many options to ensure the mount and cabling for your security system is vandal proof. Surface Mount with a Dome Camera: The cabling on this array exits the back of the camera and goes into the wall directly behind it (or ceiling, floor, etc.) The cable is entirely internal to the mount and the building, thus providing no opportunity for vandals to severe it. Mounting Bracket: This works on the same principle as the surface mount, but the cable is briefly exposed. It exits the camera and travels into the mount and then into the surface behind it. The vulnerability here is that the cable is usually exposed, but only for an inch or two. Most of us considered our work in regards to a video security system done with its installation. Making sure it is vandal proof, though, is almost as important as having it installed. Check out Edge CCTV to see vandal-proof video and security system options.