CCTV Solves an Arson Attempt in Chicago Leave a comment

Fires pose one of the most serious risks to school safety. In 2019, a Chicago high school gym was set ablaze during a holiday break. The fire caused significant damage to the floor and sports equipment. Thankfully, the school’s gym camera recorded a masked intruder entering through a side door and starting the fire. This footage was instrumental in identifying and apprehending the arsonist.

Arson incidents highlight the need to secure vulnerable areas like gyms, storerooms, and exit corridors. Cameras equipped with good low-light performance and placed strategically can provide crucial evidence even in dark conditions. In this case, the camera’s infrared capability allowed investigators to see the intruder clearly despite the lights being off.

The school worked closely with its insurer to process the claim quickly, using the footage as proof of the cause. Without that evidence, the claim might have been disputed or delayed.

Following the incident, the school upgraded its security further by adding smoke and heat sensors integrated with the camera system. When a sensor is triggered, cameras automatically focus on the affected area and start recording in high resolution.

Schools must remember that CCTV alone won’t stop a fire, but it ensures the culprits are held accountable and recovery can begin promptly. Regularly reviewing camera coverage and upgrading to modern, low-light capable models is essential.