2017-02-12 Sun
30 min, 312 words
People in many neighbourhood are having a debate on whether it is good or not to have too much "surveillance" on citizens as more and more cameras are being installed in public places. I think such step is much helpful to enhance public safety, if regulated appropriately.
To begin with, these cameras reinforce security on a large scale. The footage thus recorded provides traces of people's activities in public, which can later be used, under laws and regulations, by relevant authorities to keep public places secure, especially so when they are tracking down criminals or trying to stop a crime. Moreover, the recording serves as evidence to help settle disputes between individuals who had quarrels or even rows in such places as bars, gyms, public parks or block streets, thus indirectly contributing to the security of residents.
In addition, the cameras put in place in public venues offers much deterrence to those who intend to do harm. Places with high-resolution cameras naturally have a reduced rate of crime because the camera itself is an immediate warn as it almost instantly restrains people's behaviours. Ubiquitous installment will definitely curb crimes or harms. Therefore, the cameras are like a guardian for citizens' safety in public places, reining in wrongdoing even before it happens.
Last but not least, while public cameras prove their value in maintaining public security, proper regulations need to be enforced to guarantee the recordings of people's activities are at the disposal of the right person under legitimate reasons. After all, it is a means to achieve security, not an end in itself. Such step will not fulfill its due functions originally intended/designed unless strict legislation and rules are imposed on how to use the information contained in the recordings. Thus people's privacy will not be compromised as a result.
To conclude, with appropriate regulation and oversight, installing cameras are an effective and useful way to promote public security.
