Video Monitoring and Security - Western Special Constable Service

Keeping an Eye on Campus Safety.

Security cameras across campus help deter crime, support incident investigations, and create a safer environment for our community. Video monitoring is managed responsibly, with respect for privacy and in accordance with university policies.

Video Monitoring

Western uses video monitoring in selected campus locations to support community safety, assist with incident response, and help investigate reported concerns.

Cameras are used as one part of a broader safety program that also includes patrols, access control, emergency communication, and community reporting.

How Video Monitoring Supports Safety

Supports the response to reported incidents and urgent concerns
Assists with reviewing events after they occur
Helps identify people, vehicles, timelines, and relevant activity
Supports investigations conducted by WSCS and partner agencies
May help deter unwanted or unlawful activity in monitored areas

Video monitoring does not replace personal awareness, timely reporting, patrols, or other campus safety measures.

Video Monitoring and Privacy

Video monitoring is used in accordance with applicable University policies, privacy requirements, and access controls.

Cameras are installed for defined safety, security, and operational purposes
Access to recorded footage is restricted to authorized personnel
Footage is reviewed only when there is a legitimate operational, investigative, or legal reason
Requests for footage are assessed under applicable privacy and records-management requirements
Signage may be used to identify monitored areas

The presence of a camera does not mean that an area is being watched continuously in real time.

Requesting Video Footage

Report incidents as soon as possible so WSCS can determine whether relevant video may be available and take appropriate steps to preserve it.

Provide the date, approximate time, and exact location of the incident
Describe what occurred and why the video may be relevant
Include any identifying details that may help locate the correct footage
Provide a WSCS occurrence number, if one has already been assigned

Access to or release of footage is not automatic. Requests are reviewed under applicable University policies, privacy requirements, and legal obligations.

Report a Safety Concern

Contact WSCS when video monitoring may be relevant to an incident, suspicious activity, property loss, or another campus safety concern.

Report concerns promptly and provide the location, approximate time, and any details that may help identify relevant footage.

Report a Concern

Emergency or Immediate Concern

Call 911 when there is an immediate threat to life, a crime in progress, a fire, or another emergency requiring police, fire, or paramedic response.

For urgent campus safety concerns that are not emergencies, contact WSCS at 519-661-3300.

Get Emergency Help