Press Release

23 March 2002

Boat owners turning to new technology in the fight against crime

Fear of crime is forcing boat owners on the South Coast to look at ever more sophisticated means of protecting their assets, according to new research.

More than 80% of those questioned in a nationwide poll said that crime - or the fear of crime - was of mounting concern, and that incidences of theft and vandalism were on the increase.

Whilst the majority believed that security was primarily the responsibility of the marina management, a handful (10%) were actively taking their own steps to secure their boats.

The research, conducted by security specialists First Watch, set out to assess the market for more innovative means of securing property and valuables within a marina environment. This included utilising existing (or installing new) CCTV cameras and combining them with a new remote monitoring capability to enable owners to literally 'see' their boat via the internet from anywhere in the world.

More than a quarter (28%) said that they were actively reviewing their current security requirements and would consider new technology as an integral part of the review process. Nearly half (45%) liked the idea of being able to see their boat, any time of the day or night to ensure it was secure, and 5% admitted it would be a great thing to show their friends!

The technology behind First Watch is being pioneered by Sirrus, a UK manufacturer that specialises in the design and implementation of Remote Vision Systems in a wide range of industries.

Paul Davey, Sirrus' Managing Director, explains: "The owners we surveyed are clearly concerned about security and are prepared to match their concerns with an investment in new technology if it can be proven that it works.

"First Watch is the only system currently available that allows boat owners to 'see' their property in real time via the internet, anywhere in the world. In terms of security, the benefits are obvious, allowing owners total peace of mind.

"But the system also has advantages from a simple maintenance perspective, ensuring that the boat hasn't slipped its mooring in rough weather, or lost its canopy, for example, which is expensive to repair or replace."

Notes for Editors

About Sirrus

Sirrus is a British company that specialises in the design and implementation of Remote Vision Systems over IP networks (corporate data networks and/or the Internet). They produce a range of camera products and systems that work with computer networks and the Internet to deliver quality moving pictures globally.

For further information contact:

Janet Goddard
Marketing Manager
Sirrus Group
Allen House
Station Road
Egham
Surrey
TW20 9NT

Tel: 07000-SIRRUS (07000-747787)
Fax: 07000-744788
Email: janetg@sirrus.co.uk