How Often Does a School Bus Camera Footage Get Erased?
The frequency with which a school bus camera footage is erased can vary based on several factors, including the type of camera system used, the storage capacity, and the policies of the school district or transportation authority.
Types of Recording Systems
Modern school bus camera systems generally operate on a loop recording basis. Once the storage capacity is reached, the system begins to overwrite the oldest footage. The duration of storage can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the system's storage capabilities. Additionally, some systems are designed to retain footage for a longer period if an event like a sudden stop or collision is detected, which can trigger the system to save that footage separately.
Policies of School Districts
Different school districts may have specific policies regarding how long footage is retained. Some may keep footage for a set number of days, such as 30 days, unless flagged for review. However, the specific policy can vary based on the district and the manufacturer of the camera system.
Examples and Variations
Some individuals and systems mentioned how footage erasure varies. One person noted that the footage is usually erased at 28 days, while another mentioned using a system that recorded to video tapes and 8mm cassettes, which only lasted for a few days before overwriting. Newer systems may record footage to the cloud but may not be familiar with specific operation.
A digital recorder was also mentioned, which runs when the bus starts and continues to record for 10 minutes after the key is turned off. On average, they store about 10 days of footage on the memory cards. In case of any concern, a supervisor or mechanic can remove the card to hold onto that recording and replace it with a spare card. Drivers are not able to access the memory cards or control when the recorders operate.
Conclusion
The frequency of footage erasure for school buses can significantly vary based on the type of camera system used, storage capacity, and specific policies of the school district. Understanding these factors is crucial for both parents and school authorities to ensure proper monitoring and security measures are in place.