1. What is Smart Watch Columbus and why should my business join?

 

Smart Watch Columbus is a public-private-community partnership blending a mix of real-time crime-fighting, safety patrols, and community policing aimed at improving neighborhood safety, promoting the revitalization and growth of local businesses, and strengthening police efforts to deter, identify, and solve crime.  

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2. Will the Smart Watch Columbus Initiative be effective?

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Yes. Incidents of crime have been reduced by at least 50% or more in other cities with similar programs.

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3.  How much does it cost to be a part of Smart Watch Columbus?

 

The cost of the program starts at $350 for a single camera and $100 for signage, depending on your site, the number of cameras required, and which approved vendor you choose.  On top of this cost, there is a cost for Internet Access and Cloud Video Storage.

 

4.   Does the program require Internet access?

 

Yes, the cameras are recorded to the cloud and available to Police and Community Crime patrols via the Internet. The speed of Internet required depends on the number of cameras you select. Check with your Internet vendor. Bresco Broadband and other providers offer packages starting at $69 per month. There is a chart on the participation page that shows the amount of Internet bandwidth required per camera.

 

5.  Is the signage mandatory? What is the cost?

 

Yes, Signage is mandatory. At least one lighted sign must be installed at each Smart Watch participant’s location. The signage signifies to your customers and the community that you are a Smart Watch Columbus partner. The signs are also a crime deterrent letting people know that what they do in this area is being watched and recorded. The cost of the signs start at $100 for the required Lit Sign. Lower cost Door Decals and Aluminum Signs are optional and also available.

 

6.   Can I use my existing camera system as part of the Smart Watch Columbus Initiative?

 

No. You cannot link your existing camera system to the Smart Watch Columbus system. The systems must be compatible so everything works without issue. Smart Watch Columbus requires high definition HD cameras (1080p) that are designated for the program. Most business camera systems do not meet the HD quality requirement. HD quality is required to be able to read license plates, make out facial features and to be able to enlarge images.  

 

7. Where can Cameras be placed?

 

Cameras may only be placed in public areas where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy.  Interior locations for cameras must be public areas.

 

8.  What do we pay the city or special improvement district?

 

You do not pay the city or the special improvement district any money to be a part of the camera initiative. Participation is free. The only thing you pay for is the cost of Internet access, cloud recording, and camera equipment. This is paid to the vendor you select.

 

9.  Does enrollment in this program mean my business gets special police attention? 

 

Yes. The police are notified that your business has Smart Watch Cameras as soon as your site goes live. In the event of an emergency, businesses are required to call 911. Police can access the cameras remotely in the event of an emergency.

 

10.  How do I get started?

 

Fill out a participant form on this web site. We look forward to working with you to create a safer Columbus. 

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11. Do I have access to my cameras and recordings?

 

Yes. You have access to only your cameras and recordings, but not other Smart Watch participants' cameras. You can have additional private cameras that are not shared with Smart Watch that only you would have access to.   

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12. Can I see other Smart Watch Participants' Camera feeds?

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No. You can only see your own cameras, and your neighbors can only see their cameras. Community Safety Patrols, Police and Fire can only see the Cameras you share with them.