Frequently asked questions about CCTV

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• What is CCTV?
• How long are recordings kept for?
• How are the police notified of an incident?
• What types of incidents are captured on CCTV?
• What sort of technology is used in the CCTV system?
• Can CCTV reduce crime?
• Where can I get more information about CCTV in Wiltshire?

What is CCTV?

Closed circuit television is a television system that operates on a ‘closed loop’ basis. CCTV pictures are only available to those directly connected to the loop, which consists maily of fibre optic cable that transmits the picture from the camera to a monitor.

How long are recordings kept for?

A minimum of 28 days.

How are the police notified of an incident?

A police radio is situated in the CCTV Control room. CCTV Operators can notify the police via the police radio, a dedicated telephone line and a live video link to the police Communications Centre.

What type of incidents are captured on CCTV?

Just about every type of incident you could possibly think of! Common incidents are anti-social behaviour, assaults, drug-related, road traffic offences and theft.

Of course it is not just about crime. Missing or vulnerable persons, traffic problems, illness or injury or even such things as dangerous pavements or street lights not working.

What sort of technology is used in CCTV systems?

• The Council’s CCTV System is mainly uses analogue technology . This is rapidly being phased out and replaced by modern digital technology.
• All of the CCTV cameras produce colour pictures. The majority of the cameras are full pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ). They can be controlled and operated remotely from the Control Room. Some cameras, mainly in multi-storey car parks and internal Council buildings are fixed (not PTZ).
• The clarity and quality of picture images produced is excellent even in relatively low light levels.
• All of the camera images are recorded 24 hours a day.
• The system is controlled through a grapic user interface (GUI) which allows the Operators to select any cameras they wish. It also allows cameras to be placed on automatic electronic ‘tours’.

Can CCTV reduce crime?

The government believes that CCTV deters ‘opportunistic’ crime, where people take advantage of a situation on the spur of the moment. There is ample evidence that it is particularly effective at reducing ‘vehicle related’ crime.

CCTV cameras are also creating a vastly increased rate of convistion after crime are detected. Anyone caught on CCTV committing an offence is very likely to plead guilty, thus saving time in long and expensive court appearances.

Where can I get more information about CCTV?

For more information about CCTV in Wiltshire, please contact the CCTV Manager using the details shown below:

Last updated: 10 November 2009