How has our society improved with the use of modern surveillance equipment technology? Industry surveys report a 25 percent increase in sales of hidden spy cameras often referred to as "nanny cams" and other surveillance devices over the past five years.
Most are hidden wireless cameras and can be tucked away in almost any type of household item including plants, stuffed animals, dolls, hair dryers, a potato chip can, smoke detector, mirror, wall clock, a pencil sharpener and many other common everyday items.
As wide as the selection is, the prices vary from about $100 for a basic camera offering remote computer access to more than $500 for digital systems, which can send video images live via computer or cell phone.
These hidden spy cameras give a parent the peace of mind and confidence in childcare and is why families opt to "spy" on their child's provider through a nanny-cam and watching a video of what has gone on when they are away or at work.
What person has not seen on television the picture of a once trusted babysitter or caregiver obviously treating their charge harshly including both physical and emotional harm?
There have been some repercussions from the use of these devices. The good caregivers are increasingly sensing lack of trust and feeling of deception towards the service they provide and get angry when at times they are wrongfully accused of something.
Nanny cams aside, a mini spy cam or wireless spy camera are used for many other reasons than just childcare.
A hidden camera device can make sure your cleaning service is cleaning your home as they should be cleaning it, for occasional in-home animal sitter services; keep an eye on your home when you are away and for other various home surveillance reasons.
However, spy camera shops still indicate that the leading reasons why people buy these devices are to strictly monitor their care providers.
Do care providers support the use of spy cameras?
As I mentioned previously, media stories abound on focusing on potential abuse and inattention.
The question of quality of care and the performance of expected services are the major reasons parents should consider using a hidden camera. Some sitters even report a camera can provide a positive connection with the families while the parents are at work.
Supposedly, more and more public daycare centers are installing wireless spy cameras tied in with computers and the Internet, which provide nervous parents with the ability to periodically check and watch their child while at work. This use of surveillance provides the added assurance that their child is safe.
As with everything else, surveillance technology requires the good judgment on the part of the user. Like every technology, it has the capability to be used in a positive manner and the capability to be used negatively. Let us pray that as surveillance technology improves that men and women gain in their wisdom of how to use it.
Bill Wallmuller, aka Mr. Merokee, is the founder of Merokee Enterprises and is involved with the war on crime. Please visit www.surveillance-equipment-technology.com |
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