Project sample

QUESTION

Fire alarms are very important things, I think we can all agree on that. Every year, fire alarms cut the estimated death counts in fires by 50%, but like every good thing, they can be abused by people looking to get out of class for the day, or people simply wanting to pull a prank on their local Campus. Whenever this happens, authorities are notified, firefighters get called to the scene, and everyone has to stop what they’re doing and evacuate from the premises. Which naturally wastes everyone’s time and money. In fact, in 2015 alone, approximately $10 million tax-payer dollars were wasted responding to false alarms via fire alarm. With this surveillance camera styled fire alarm, I hope to mitigate some of the costs that come with responding to false alarms by catching the people involved, or using it as a deterrent from committing the crime in the first place.

This specialized camera functions as any camera would, however, it is designed to only take pictures once the switch has been flipped. What happens when this camera is triggered is fairly obvious, the camera receives a signal from a wireless sensor built into the fire alarm and then proceeds to take a multitude of pictures with a flash, the picture is then stored into an SD card in the camera, which is locked with a luggage lock and can only be opened with a set combination. It also comes in two forms, one which looks like a household smoke detector, while the other looks like a more traditional camera for when you think that the mere presence of a camera is enough of a deterrent.

While you may think, “Well, why not just install another camera?” Well let me tell you, skeptical professor. These cameras can not only function on electricity, but they also can run on batteries, both as the primary power source, or as a backup. These cameras also come in a thick plastic that won’t easily break due to small projectiles being thrown at it, namely rocks and small objects. Thanks to this, you couldn’t easily just throw something at it and then proceed to pull the fire alarm.

As for how it benefits those that buy this, this camera can be used anywhere that might not have enough money for a security system or in buildings like public schools. Heck, you could even use it at College campuses! (Neff Hall) The purpose is to have a cheap and effective way at detering people from pulling that switch and wasting presious time and money, because no one likes that! It could potentially save thousands of tax-payer dollars per year, with little to no trouble! With this camera, the firefighters would have to worry a little less with false alarms, and more on actual emergencies. Which is a swell time for everyone around!

ANSWER

Enhancing Fire Alarm Efficiency and Minimizing Costs with Surveillance Camera Integration

Introduction

Fire alarms play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and property by alerting occupants to potential fire emergencies. However, the misuse of fire alarms for pranks or avoiding responsibilities incurs significant costs and inconveniences for authorities, firefighters, and the general public. In an effort to mitigate these issues, a surveillance camera styled fire alarm has been developed. This innovative solution aims to reduce false alarms by capturing evidence and deterring potential offenders, ultimately saving taxpayers’ money and allowing firefighters to focus on genuine emergencies.

The Functionality and Design

The specialized camera seamlessly integrates with the fire alarm system, triggering its operation only when the alarm switch is activated. This camera is equipped with a wireless sensor that communicates with the fire alarm, initiating a series of flash-enabled photos (Katharina.kiener-Manu, n.d.). These images are then securely stored in an SD card within the camera, which is further protected by a lock, preventing tampering or unauthorized access. The camera is available in two variants: one resembling a standard household smoke detector and another designed to resemble a traditional surveillance camera, thereby acting as a visual deterrent.

Versatile Power Options and Durability

Unlike conventional cameras, this surveillance camera fire alarm can be powered by both electricity and batteries. This versatility ensures uninterrupted functionality, even during power outages or intentional disruptions. Additionally, the camera’s robust design, constructed with thick, projectile-resistant plastic, minimizes the risk of damage from objects thrown at it, such as rocks or small projectiles (Campus | Industries – Edgeworth Security, n.d.). This durability enhances the camera’s effectiveness in deterring vandalism and ensuring reliable operation in various environments.

Cost-Effective Solution for Various Settings

This camera system offers an affordable alternative for locations that may lack the financial resources to implement comprehensive security systems. Educational institutions, including public schools and college campuses, can greatly benefit from this cost-effective solution. By reducing false alarms, these institutions can save thousands of dollars annually, allowing valuable resources to be allocated more efficiently (Chapter 5-Protecting Your System: Physical Security, From Safeguarding Your Technology,  NCES Publication 98-297 (National Center for Education Statistics), n.d.). The surveillance camera fire alarm serves as a proactive investment, deterring potential offenders and promoting responsible behavior among students and staff.

Advantages for Firefighters and Public Safety

The integration of surveillance cameras within fire alarm systems significantly reduces the burden on firefighters and emergency response teams. By capturing photographic evidence of individuals involved in false alarm incidents, authorities can identify and hold accountable those responsible for such actions. This technology not only discourages individuals from pulling the fire alarm, but it also aids in the swift resolution of false alarm incidents. As a result, firefighters can redirect their efforts toward addressing genuine emergencies, thereby enhancing overall public safety.

Conclusion

The introduction of surveillance camera styled fire alarms represents a significant step toward improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of fire alarm systems. By deterring false alarms through visual surveillance and providing evidentiary support, this innovative solution saves taxpayers’ money, enables the optimal allocation of resources, and enhances the safety of educational institutions and other settings. The integration of surveillance cameras with fire alarms is a practical and impactful approach to reducing false alarms, ensuring that firefighters can prioritize genuine emergencies and respond promptly to protect lives and property.

References

Campus | Industries – Edgeworth Security. (n.d.). Edgeworth Security. https://edgeworthsecurity.com/industries/campus 

Chapter 5-Protecting Your System: Physical Security, from Safeguarding Your Technology,  NCES Publication 98-297 (National Center for Education Statistics). (n.d.). https://nces.ed.gov/pubs98/safetech/chapter5.asp 

Katharina.kiener-Manu. (n.d.). Crime Prevention & Criminal Justice Module 2 Exercises. https://www.unodc.org/e4j/en/crime-prevention-criminal-justice/module-2/exercises.html