Safety & Protection
Handing CCTV footage to the police: what to do?
Handing CCTV footage to the police: the right reflexes in a few simple steps.
Written by Mohamed IDBRAHIM · Updated octobre 13, 2026 · 7 min read
Immediate actions
- 1 Preserve the original files untouched.
- 2 Export timestamped clips of the incident.
- 3 Note your cameras' clock accuracy.
- 4 Provide copies — never surrender originals.
What not to do / warning
Time-synced footage is dramatically more useful as evidence.
When a handing cctv footage to the police happens, the first minutes matter. Follow these steps to act safely and without panic.
What to do right now
- Preserve the original files untouched.
- Export timestamped clips of the incident.
- Note your cameras' clock accuracy.
- Provide copies — never surrender originals.
Mistakes to avoid
- Acting before removing the immediate source of danger.
- Panicking or skipping the official procedures.
- Following unverified advice from random websites.
How to prevent this in the future
Regular checks, keeping emergency numbers visible and preparing an essentials kit go a long way. Save this guide for offline access.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first?
Ensure everyone is safe, remove the source of danger, then call the relevant number or begin the official procedure.
When should I call emergency services?
Whenever life, serious injury or fire is involved. When in doubt, call — dispatchers would rather check than miss an emergency.