The system, consisting of cameras and control room software, has been installed at the university’s M.M. Roberts football stadium.
The 40,000 seat outdoor stadium, located at the centre of the campus and home to the Golden Eagles football team.
“The Avigilon HD Surveillance System almost acts like additional staff, providing greater coverage with fewer personnel on the ground and a more effective and efficient way to monitor the stands,” said the university’s chief of police, Robert Hopkins.
“Once you learn how to use the system, a much easier process than with our legacy analog-based system, all you have to do is click the mouse to zoom, focus, and review for excellent forensic results.”
Avigilon touches down on yard lines
The system is managed with Avigilon’s Control Center Enterprise Network Video Management Software with HD Stream Management. A total of 16 HD megapixel cameras were fitted at the 20, 50, and 20 yard lines on each sideline and five dome HD megapixel cameras fixed to monitor entrances at the north and south end zones.
The system has been designed to run 24/7 and is monitored live during football games. It is also used in forensic mode when other events, such as intramural sports, commencement ceremonies, and high school football games are being held, with Avigilon’s NVRs set up to store 90 days of continuous surveillance footage.
According to the university, since the system was installed,, the M.M. Roberts Stadium reduced the number of staff during games from 70 to 45 and was able to prevent a “costly and time-consuming” evacuation due to a suspicious looking backpack that was left on the sidelines.
“Faced with security risks ranging from crowd outbursts to fan disturbances, the M.M. Roberts Stadium needed a surveillance system that would monitor the facility’s most populated areas,” said Keith Marett, director of marketing and communications at Avigilon. “We have worked closely with the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security at Southern Mississippi to deploy an advanced, easy-to-use HD surveillance solution that not only improves spectator safety, but also reduces operational costs.”