“Are you afraid of being watched?” is probably the last question someone will ask as we are so prevalent of being monitored these days, especially under the names of counter terrorism and maintaining social order. One is no longer surprised, catch reading a sign which says “This area is under surveillance” in public, neither are we alarmed by new cameras being installed in the neighbourhood. Nevertheless, do still expect CCTV appearing at the most unexpected corners.

 

Low maintenance CCTV cameras are often used for under the sea research; without the need for regular cleaning by trained divers and coming with sweeping function which enables algae and other microorganism from growing on the device. The purpose of these cameras can be rather diverse, on top of providing a clear view of what is going on in the sea, normally they revolve around the facilitation of research, marine life conservation, safety of sea resorts, and related surveillance like protection of underwater cables or investigations of ship wreck and oil linkages. Footages are usually sent directly to computers or phones for easy access by authorities.

 

CCTV may also be found in spots with high suicide rates as research studies showed that the act tends to drop significantly if cameras are installed as committers will think that they are being watched; increasing the likelihood of third part intervention, and thus making these people to reconsider some of these life ending thoughts. Such CCTV monitoring system is especially successful if they are initiated by self-help groups, which will be alarmed at time of action, so as to take prompt actions against people who are taking their lives publicly or privately.

 

Although there has been a debate if it is necessary to have CCTV cameras in schools, countries like UK, 85% of the schools are still being monitored on a regular basis. One main concern is children’s safety as authorities are trying to minimise bullying and also prevent weapons from gaining access to the campus. Most schools reassured parents and teachers by claiming cameras are located, only in areas that are most susceptible to emergencies and in any emergencies, footages shall only be reviewed when incidences happened.

 

On the other hand, some researchers and teachers welcomed the idea of CCTV cameras so that they have records of ideal lessons taking place for studies purpose. In such circumstance, both teachers and students are fully informed yet unaware of when the recording is taking place, so no prior rehearsing could take place and everything is carry out in a smooth manner.

 

Next time, when you are out on the streets, perhaps it would also be interesting to look around and see what kinds of CCTV cameras are looking right into you.