Theft Prevention

The incidents of theft on business are alarmingly high. Since businesses have many items that can be exchanged for fast cash, thieves are all the more tempted. Businesses are vulnerable when everyone goes home, and businesses are left unattended. Unlike a neighborhood of homes, where neighbors are coming and going at all times, businesses are usually calm by early evening hours. Measures can be taken to reduce the risks of property loss from theft. Intruders often find other ways of entry beside a door, like an air conditioning duck, skylight, or roof access. Take a few steps to reduce this crime of opportunity:

§         Have a security assessment performed on your business so that you can take care of any potential problems.

§         Ensure the placement of proper lighting inside and out that allows for safe visibility. The proper lighting can help keep the employees and the business as safe as possible.

§         Have an alarm system installed that includes a silent alarm to be used in case of emergencies. Certain signals may be prearranged with local authorities for emergency situations if assistance is needed, and a normal telephone call cannot be used.

§         Keep all door and windows in proper working condition. Make sure all rear service doors are properly secured. Have high quality locks installed and use them to their potential. Consider the location of the window when considering the type of glass to be used. Unbreakable polycarbonate windows work very well.

§         When the use of a safe is need, make sure to use Underwriter Laboratory listed money safes that is securely bolted to the floor.

§         The use of cameras, mirrors, and one-way mirrors can be very advantageous in a store setting.

§         Use the buddy system with other businesses in the area, in case of an emergency or suspicious situation.

§         In a retail store environment, arrange merchandise for clear visibility from all angles. Arrange displays with the most important items in the middle, and in clear view.

Policies:

§         If your business deals with cash, only keep a small amount on hand, and make sure that this fact is posted to the public.

§         Make money drops into a vaulted slot when the total cash on hand reaches a certain amount.

§         Balance accounts and count money in a private area.

§         Vary the schedule of the person who makes the bank deposits, and also the route in which they get to the bank.

§         Deposits should be made on a daily basis to keep cash and checks on hand to a minimum.

§         Before locking up at night, check all restrooms and closets to avoid an overnight intruder.

Employees:

§         Use stringent hiring rules before hiring.

§         Have crime prevention meetings to inform employees of safety measures.

§         Use the buddy system when opening and closing, for safety reasons.

§         Train your employees for different types of situations that may require action to be taken.

§         Perform dress rehearsals for emergency situations, the better informed the employees are, the safer they will be. Try using these helpful tips:

		When an emergency situation occurs, stay as calm as possible. If an intruder senses hostility or anger, this could escalate the situation. Try not to panic or act confused.
		Don't try and be a hero, remember safety comes first objects can be replaced.
		Don't confront the subject, or escalate the situation to a higher level.
		During this type of situations, take mental notes and try to remember as many details as possible. Pay close attention to the physical description of the intruder i.e., height, weight, gender etc. Also take note of the type of vehicle that may be used.
		As soon as it is safe, alert authorities.

§         Key control is very important, keep track of who has a key, and have the business re-keyed when employees are let go. Consider an alternative, which is access control versus keys.