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Ferries
and Ferry Terminals
When considering
video surveillance for ferry systems, theres a lot of ground, or shall we say
water, to cover. Like many public transportation providers, ferries are considered
targets for acts of terrorism, and must take special precautions to ensure safety
for passengers, workers, and equipment. Video surveillance plays a key role
in this effort, and functions for task beyond just security, for instance traffic
control and coordination of service.
Benefits of ferry
system video surveillance
- Combat
terrorism Video surveillance systems are an integral part of a
larger effort to prevent terrorist plots from being carried out on our around
ferry boats and terminals. Such threats do exist, and security cameras help
authorities to monitor for suspicious activity.
- Scalability
One of the many benefits of IP-based surveillance for ferry systems is scalability.
New cameras can easily be added to such a system as needed, for instance if
the terminal requires more comprehensive monitoring or if new boats are added.
- Prevent
vandalism Strategically placed security cameras deter acts of vandalism
on ferry equipment or within terminals. If such acts are carried out, the
cameras provide visual evidence for prosecution.
- Enhance
safety at terminals Ferry terminals can be dangerous places, especially
late at night and after hours. Those who must wait in terminals for extended
periods of time have an added sense of security knowing that the terminals
are continuously monitored by security cameras.
- Spot
potential rabble rousers Many unwanted incidents stem from intoxicated
and rowdy passengers. Surveillance cameras can help security personnel identify
potential threats before situations get out of hand.
- Better
coordinate arrivals and departures With video surveillance installations
monitoring ferry traffic, waiting areas, and cargo areas, workers can better
access situations and determine appropriate the workflow to keep the ferry
system running on schedule.
- Prevent
crime Security cameras placed at areas where money is exchanged,
such as ticket windows, retail shops, and concession areas, can help to deter
acts of theft and other criminal activity.
- Digital
storage IP surveillance systems store video footage digitally.
This allows for greater storage capacity while also providing dramatically
improved search features. Investigators can efficiently scour though digital
footage for images of specific incidents that could prove useful in criminal
investigations.
Ferry Surveillance
Risks
- Vandalism
If video cameras are tampered with, a signal could be lost. Other security
measures should be in place to maintain proper security in instances where
cameras become inoperable.
Configuration
of Video Surveillance Systems for Harbor Terminals and Ferries
Consider the following
factors when determining the appropriate video surveillance installation for
ferries and terminals:
- Does the ferry
system have the necessary security staff to properly patrol its ferries and
terminal?
- Do police offers
provide security assistance?
- What types
of security systems are currently in place for the ferries and terminals?
- Have there
been reported cases of criminal activity on the ferries or in the terminals?
- Is there a
history of vandalism to equipment and facilities?
- Does the system
operate passenger ferries only?
- Do the ferries
transport vehicles and significant amounts of cargo?
- Do certain
ferry runs demand tighter security and stronger police presence than others?
- What systems
are in place to control access to restricted areas?
- What is the
flow of traffic like during ferry arrivals and departures?
- Are there long-term
parking lots near the terminal which require close monitoring?
- How is employee
identification handled?
- Are the terminals
properly monitored at night and after hours?
Security Camera
Setup Advice for Ferries and Ferry Terminals
- Position security
cameras at all boarding and unloading areas to capture images of all ferry
passengers.
- Monitor walk-on
and vehicle waiting areas to gauge the flow of traffic and to watch for incidents
and suspect vehicles.
- Provide continuous
video surveillance of terminals in order to protect those waiting late at
night.
- Install security
cameras at cargo loading and unloading zones.
- Place surveillance
cameras that watch over ticket windows and retail areas in order to prevent
theft and criminal acts?
- Use security
cameras to monitor parking lots for break-in attempts and vandalism.
- Provide exterior
and interior views of the ferry to watch for unwanted incidents, rowdy passengers,
and the general flow of activity.
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