Consider protecting your home with CCTV

Published Wednesday, 23rd October 2019

Householders in Hartlepool are being advised to consider installing CCTV as a way of securing their properties.

The Hartlepool Community Safety Team says cameras can help to deter would-be thieves and burglars and should be used in conjunction with other crime prevention methods such as good locks and bolts.

Victim Services Officer Jane Munden said: “There are a number of benefits to be gained by installing CCTV at your home, not least the peace of mind you get from knowing that your home is being constantly monitored.

“The most up-to-date systems also enable you to remotely check your cameras via a computer, tablet or mobile phone so you can view your property at any time of the day or night irrespective of where you are.”

The benefits of CCTV are being highlighted as part of National Home Security Month which is running throughout October.

However, the Hartlepool Community Safety Team also says there are a number of important issues to be considered when installing CCTV.

It says that cameras must not film outside the boundary of a property otherwise GDPR regulations and the Data Protection Act will apply. Cameras should also not be hidden and residents should put up a clearly visible notice that CCTV is in use. They also advised to reassure neighbours that cameras are not being used to film them. Anyone who does not own their own home, should always ensure they have written permission before installing CCTV.

The team also says that before purchasing a CCTV system residents should carefully consider the type of camera required, its proposed location, the quality of recorded images and the images can be viewed and downloaded.

For further information, or to request crime prevention advice/assistance or victim support, contact the Hartlepool Community Safety Team on (01429) 523100 or email community.safety@hartlepool.gov.uk

Anyone wishing to report crime or anti-social behaviour in their neighbourhood can email the Hartlepool Community Safety Team on community.safety@hartlepool.gov.uk or call (01429) 523100. Alternatively, they can call Cleveland Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.