Gun Violence in Savannah: How Video Security Can Help Reduce it and why it's important
The beautiful historic squares, charming streets, and tree-lined with hanging Spanish moss is what draws people into Savannah. Savannah is an amazing place to visit and an even better place to live. Though are beauty is abundant on the outside and our culture is strong, we still experience flaws as every city does.
In 2019 alone Savannah saw a 32% increase in crime from the year prior. To address this increase, and the public’s understandable concerns about the issue, Mayor Johnson released a statement, discussing the topic of gun violence in our city. A dominant increase in this crime can be attributed to theft from vehicles. From these thefts, guns are being stolen and used in crimes that have been a major contribution to the rise in gun violence in Savannah and have primarily happened in the downtown area.
These statistics and concerns cannot be fixed overnight, but in an attempt to deter crime and to combat rising gun violence statistics, immediate action is being taken to increase the visibility of law enforcement throughout the city.
Video Surveillance solutions, like the SafeCity Initiative, could aid these efforts and provide law enforcement and city officials some additional assistance.
Deters Criminal Activity
The presence of security systems has been proven successful in helping to deter both violent and property crimes. Video surveillance cameras are a valuable tool in prosecuting crime, but their presence also helps to deter incidents when combined with visible signage. The City Of Detroit implemented its Project Greenlight and saw crime decreased by 40% at the first eight Project Green Light sites and that the composite of all Green Light locations in 2017.
Catches crime in the act
By utilizing a security system like SafeCity’s, businesses are able to access real-time viewing. Having video surveillance with remote viewing allows you to protect your business 24/7 with no interruption in coverage. Businesses have access to footage throughout remote-viewing on phones or internet browsers, allowing you to check in anytime, from anywhere.
Are Internet Accessible
Security cameras that are internet-ready are a good way of monitoring your home or your business. They can be viewed from almost any location that has a computer or smartphone with an internet connection. This allows owners to keep an eye on their property while they are away. There are even video surveillance systems that can notify you through email or text when the movement has been detected. Security cameras that are equipped with motion sensors give them the capability of detecting movements. Luckily, video surveillance systems like SafeCity’s are live and recording, no matter what. Peter and Egon would be jealous.
Gives Peace of Mind
Many criminals are wary of security systems and, in fact, just the “Secured by scDataCom” sticker on your door could be enough to discourage crime. However, one of the major benefits of having a video surveillance system is redundancy. The installation of surveillance systems gives business owners peace of mind...just in case. Knowing that your business is being watched and protected, 24/7, is sweet. (Almost as sweet as Leopold’s Ice Cream with no line. Almost.
SafeCity’s video surveillance program is a community-focused program dedicated to fostering the safety, revitalization, and continued growth of local business corridors by implementing security and technology tools designed to protect our Savannah community. Participants will benefit from a high live-stream of their facilities so that they can check in on their establishment remotely. The video surveillance technologies deployed are state of the art and will provide high-definition footage, optimized for forensic purposes with minimal motion blur and infrared technology. In the event of an incident, both participants and law enforcement will be provided with footage of the area.
Data shows that programs like this have shown a positive impact on the crime rate and reducing car thefts in that community. The SafeCity Initiative supports the local authorities’ goals to reduce crime within the community, build relationships and partnerships, and increase efficiency by using technology. By utilizing the SafeCity initiative, businesses are able to show a unified front and let criminals know they are not welcomed and we have our eyes on the neighborhood.