Another missing deposit, the tip jar disappeared, counterfeit bills in the drawer, a car accident in the parking lot. If you work in the restaurant and retail industries you know these crimes are all too frequent occurrences, and always “filmed on location.” When they do occur, you will want your CCTV system to assist the police in determining what happened and who is responsible. But how do you get video to them? Here are a few tips on how to provide video from your i2i Surveillance System to members of law enforcement.
Before
Find out your company policies regarding incidents
Check handbooks and procedures for how to properly handle criminal activity and the handling of video evidence. If you are unsure of your policies or don’t have an employee handbook contact your company’s Loss Prevention department. Brief your managers and employees on procedures and best practices.
Obtain blank media for export
The size of digital video is very large compared to other files with which you may be familiar. HD video can be many gigabytes for just a short period of time. The good news is the media you need for export is inexpensive enough you can have extra on hand. iTech Digital recommends you keep 5 CD-R disks for analog systems and a 32GB USB drive for IP/HD systems. Store them in the store safe or a locked drawer, clearly labeled, so they are not used for anything else.
Regularly check your surveillance system
Make sure all your cameras are clean, functional and have a unobstructed view of their coverage areas. Do a test export, if you are unsure how to do so, contact iTech Digital for a Quick Reference Guide or schedule a training session.
After
Follow company procedures
Most companies have clear instructions on what to do if there is a crime on the premises. If you need to, contact your Loss Prevention department for assistance.
Contact iTech Digital for a video retrieval or technical support
iTech Digital Technical support can assist you performing your own video retrieval. Or, if you would prefer, iTech Digital will perform the retrieval for you, sending the video to the proper parties. This service is included with Platinum Service or is available as needed. Your LP department may even prefer a iTech Digital retrieval to reduce evidentiary spoilage.
Export video to disk or make a video retrieval request immediately
Don’t wait days or weeks to export the video. All DVRs use circular storage, so over time video can be overwritten. Depending on the amount of video requested, an export may take some time, especially if you want to export days or weeks of video from multiple cameras. Perpetrators (sadly often employees) may even try to steal, damage or destroy the DVR.
Export all video you MAY need
Export any video you may need, often LE or your own LP department will request all cameras, maybe even the entire day.
Provide iTech Tech Support contact info to LE
LE may need assistance with playback, video CODECs or Archive Players. Give them iTech Digital’s contact information so they can ask for support directly. iTech Digital always provides free support to federal agencies, local and state police and fire departments.
