Over the last year we have installed a system of inexpensive but reliable cameras and a video recorder that can connect to our existing computer network. Several important areas are often hidden from view but can now be monitored by screens located in several offices and even on a laptop when necessary.

NEW CAMERAS

Since we’ve been expanding our computer network AND since the cameras are IP (internet protocol) cameras that are POE (power-over-ethernet) powered, a single ethernet cable is all that is required to place a new camera.  

This past month workers added a camera that can monitor the REAR PARKING LOT that includes a view of the playground and the garage.  They also added a camera with a close-up view of door 8 (kitchen delivery door) that will also catch images of folks using door 7, and even those who decide to explore the basement stairs.

These are areas that are usually beyond the view of many, so they “invite” folks who may have ill intent (graffiti, vandalism, theft).  The cameras are not monitored 24/7, but the network video recorder (NVR) digitally records images from each camera and then overwrites the oldest images with the newest images.  This summer we will be upgrading the hard drive on the NVR so it keeps another week of images.

EXISTING CAMERAS

Three other cameras help to monitor activity around the building; including outside door 1 (near the school office), door 2 (facing the south side of the church building) and at the retractable gate (which includes the preschool play area). One camera is located inside the building recording activity in the Eagle Care room (for that short period of time when only one adult is caring for children).