The Lubbock Police Department announced Wednesday a new tool they believe will curb crime and help with investigations. The program is called SafeCam and it is being used in other cities across the U.S.

Here's how it works. Businesses and residents can register their security cameras with the Lubbock Police Department. Those who decide to register give their basic information (name and address) along with how many security cameras they have. LPD will then have a list of security cameras around Lubbock and will be able to access that list during an investigation. If a camera is in the area of a crime, the owner of that camera is contacted and police can ask to see the footage.

There is no way police can see the footage without the video being handed over by the owner. Residents and business owners can opt-in and opt-out at any time.

You can register your cameras on the Lubbock Police Department's website and by clicking on the 'SafeCam Program' tab. You can find out more information about the program here.