Police introduce registry for local security camera, surveillance locations
Posted May 16, 2025 09:43:09 AM.
Last Updated Jun 6, 2025 04:07:57 PM.
Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) has introduced a new public safety initiative, looking to create a registry of security cameras located throughout the region.
It’s in hopes of turning doorbell cameras, outdoor security, and even CCTV cameras into potential detectives, giving officers faster knowledge of where cameras are located throughout their investigations.
It’s a system called CAMSafe, which is a detailed registry where members of the public and local businesses can submit the location of their surveillance systems, helping police to find nearby cameras when a crime occurs.
“CAMSafe is another important tool that helps us work in partnership with the community to enhance public safety,” said Chief of Police with WRPS, Mark Crowell. “By registering a camera location, residents and business owners can play a direct role in helping prevent and solve crime in their neighbourhoods.”
While it’s new to the region, it’s not an entirely new system. CAMSafe was first developed in 2021 by Belleville Police Service, later being adopted by various police services across the province, even by Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
In a statement, WRPS specified that when a crime, collision, or other event occurs, “if a camera is located near the incident, officers may contact the registered owner and request access to video footage that could assist with the investigation.”
It does specify that being registered does not give officers direct access to any camera systems, simply helps them to know where the cameras are located and who to get in contact with.
Full information on WRPS’ new initiative can be found on the CAMSafe website.
