From home security cameras to business security, community surveillance, and more, the use of video surveillance security systems is not uncommon in today’s world. In fact, it’s estimated that video evidence is used in about 80 percent of crimes.¹ Not only has video surveillance proven to reduce crime², but it also helps law enforcement solve crimes³ and even helps first responders react to emergencies more quickly. This blog will explain the importance of video surveillance security systems, what video verification means, and how it improves first responders’ response rates.
What is video verification?
Video verification is the process of an alarm company, like CPI Security, accessing a customer’s video cameras—with their permission—to confirm there is a real emergency during an alarm-triggered event. When the alarm company can visually verify a break-in, fire, or medical emergency, they can confirm to 911 dispatch centers that a verified alarm response is needed immediately.
Video also provides monitoring center operators with critical situational details—such as the number of intruders, the point of entry, or the location of a fire—that can dramatically improve both response and apprehension rates.
In order to visually verify an emergency, customers must have security cameras that are monitored through a professional alarm monitoring service. Click here to learn more about 24/7 professional monitoring.
How does a video verified alarm work?
A video verified alarm works by combining traditional alarm sensors with live or recorded video footage. Here’s the basic process:
- A sensor—such as a motion detector, glass break sensor, or door sensor—triggers an alarm.
- The central monitoring station receives the alert and pulls up the customer’s video feed.
- A trained operator reviews the footage to confirm whether a real threat exists.
- If verified, the operator contacts 911 with confirmed threat information, enabling a priority dispatch.
This alarm video verification process is what sets professionally monitored systems apart from basic DIY security setups.
How video verification reduces false alarms
Without cameras, central station operators can only rely on audio or other security measures, like door sensors, glass break detectors, or motion sensors, that may trigger an alarm without providing context. This can lead to a high rate of false alarms, which wastes first responders’ time and resources.
With alarm video verification, CPI customers can also take an active role in home security false alarm prevention. If an alarm is triggered, customers can quickly access their own camera feeds, confirm there is no emergency, and cancel the alert before the central station dispatches. This quick customer notification and self-verification process greatly reduces unnecessary emergency responses and helps keep 911 resources available for real emergencies.
How video verification improves first responder response times
When alarm companies visually confirm an emergency through a video surveillance security system, they can communicate directly with 911 dispatchers with confidence. Instead of simply reporting that an alarm was triggered, operators can tell dispatch:
- There is a confirmed break-in in progress
- There is a visible fire or smoke in a specific area of the property
- A person appears to be in medical distress
This level of detail allows first responders to prioritize verified alarm response calls over unverified ones, ultimately leading to faster arrivals and better outcomes. In emergencies where every second counts, video verification can make a critical difference.
Why video surveillance security systems matter
Investing in a professional alarm monitoring service with video capabilities isn’t just about recording footage—it’s about having a system that actively works to protect your property and family. Video surveillance security systems provide:
- A proven deterrent to criminal activity
- Visual evidence that helps law enforcement solve crimes
- Faster, more accurate emergency dispatch through alarm video verification
- Fewer false alarms and wasted resources
- Greater peace of mind, whether you’re at home or away
Get started with CPI Security today
For more information on video verification or to install a professionally monitored home or business security system, contact CPI Security today. Our experts can help you find the right video surveillance security system to protect what matters most.
Sources:
1Bureau of Justice Assistance, “Video Evidence A Primer for Prosecutors”
2McMaster Optimal Aging Portal, “CCTV surveillance found to be a key tool in crime prevention”
3Australian Government Institute of Criminology, “Does CCTV help police solve crime?”