Take one look at the local crime statistics, and you’ll see that Houston’s crime prevention efforts aren’t moving in the right direction. Recently, violent acts, homicides, and robberies have contributed to a spike in crime. And despite their best efforts, authorities are struggling to contain the surge.
Houston has experienced a 28% rise in homicides compared to the same period last year. Other types of violent crime, including aggravated assault, kidnapping, and domestic violence, have also significantly increased over the previous year.
Different areas within the Greater Houston region are facing unique challenges. For example, Seabrook has seen an uptick in assaults, drug use, and mental health-related crime. Meanwhile, Harris County has experienced a surge in car break-ins and businesses being burglarized, and Webster has suffered an increase in purse snatchings.
This sudden crime wave has left local leaders and business owners searching for new solutions to help prevent crime in Houston. However, innovations in technology and security services from local companies such as SentriForce are providing some relief.
What Has Caused Houston’s Crime Wave?
After decades of historically low violent crime across the United States, we are now in the second year of a significant increase. The COVID-19 pandemic ripping through the United States over the past 18 months is at least partly responsible for that. It led to increased financial strain and mental health concerns. So it isn’t surprising to see a rise in crime as a result.
However, it’s important to note that violent crime was already climbing before the pandemic began, and the incidents increased further following lockdown mandates. Given the uptick in lawbreaking offenses, Houston’s crime prevention systems could use a helping hand.
Managed Video Surveillance Services: A Viable Houston Crime Deterrent
Naturally, interest in commercial and residential security systems rises when local crime becomes more prevalent. While some turn to CCTV or smart doorbell cameras, others are opting for more advanced measures.
SentriForce has reported a growing interest in its managed video surveillance services. This Houston crime deterrent service utilizes advanced equipment and software to record and monitor activity in real-time. Commercial and retail properties can combine these products with live video monitoring services to further the efforts of crime prevention in Houston.
These advanced security solutions appeal to businesses, homeowner associations, construction sites, and apartment communities due to several factors.
First, these services cost a fraction of the upfront cost of CCTV systems or the monthly salary of security guards. Second, managed video surveillance provides proven crime deterrent techniques and effective recourse options for theft prevention. In addition to installing, maintaining, and managing surveillance equipment, these services take on the responsibility of retrieving video evidence.
The live video monitoring team can use alarms and audible warnings to deter trespassers on commercial properties from committing criminal acts. In addition, they can contact the authorities when a crime takes place to increase the likelihood of apprehending the perpetrator.
These security solutions are ushering in a new wave of crime prevention in Houston. As a result, the video surveillance as a service (VSaaS) market is expected to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16% from 2020 to 2025. The rise in demand for real-time surveillance in urban areas is likely a significant contributor to the industry’s projected amplification.
Why Are Businesses And Homeowner Associations Turning to Managed Video Surveillance Services?
Interest in the systems and services provided by Houston crime deterrent companies such as SentriForce has skyrocketed. The straightforward reason is that they’ve improved upon traditional security solutions such as CCTV and security guards.
CCTV cameras can provide a visible deterrent for criminals, and footage can be recorded and stored for evidential and insurance purposes. However, it’s up to an individual or business to manage this process.
Security guards have long been used to assist crime prevention in Houston, but they too have their weaknesses. While they can be an effective visual deterrent and provide an on-site resolution if a crime occurs, they are expensive and prone to human error. In addition, they do not create a physical record of a crime to help identify and apprehend criminals. That’s why many businesses and homeowner associations have been looking for more effective and affordable alternatives to security guards.
Managed video surveillance services help solve many of these problems. For example, they are responsible for managing security cameras and recorded footage. Plus, they provide a more comprehensive solution for Houston apartment complexes, homeowners associations, businesses, and retail companies.
In addition to Houston crime deterrent tactics, local security providers such as SentriForce monitor managed video surveillance services in commercial and retail properties around the clock. That means they can contact law enforcement as a crime is taking place. Video analytics also enable cameras to spot threats that humans might not see. As a result, clear and comprehensive video evidence can increase the rate of apprehensions and convictions.
The goal is that crime prevention in Houston will be more effective than ever as more businesses and home associations turn to managed video surveillance systems.
