Learn about burglary deterrents, how to prepare your staff and how to alert the authorities.
Armed robbery is less common than burglary but still likely to be a more dangerous threat to you, your employees, and your customers. Thieves tend to choose targets that have readily available cash and weak security procedures. Even by taking the best precautions, thefts still occur. Below are a few simple tips a business owner can take to help protect their employees and their business.
How can business owners protect themselves against armed robberies?
Employee training. Don’t assume your employees will know what to do in a highly stressful situation. Make sure they know what to do in the event of a robbery. Training is an investment you make for your employees that could save a life.
Money management.
Find ways to reduce the amount that could be at risk during a robbery. In other words, consider prohibiting transactions with high-denomination bills during high-risk hours. Post this information in public view, as it could deter a potential thief. The highest risk times for robbery are at night, during off-peak hours, and when most nearby businesses are closed.
Cash deposits.
Cash deposits can be made that may reduce the amount of cash available several times a day but should be made at least once daily. Also, deposit money at different times of the day or use an armored car service. Between deposits, limit the amount of cash in the cash register—store excess bills, as well as high denomination bills, in a deposit safe. If possible, secure your deposit safe to the floor of another room.
Burglar alarms and panic buttons.
These alarm systems are designed to inform authorities that burglary is occurring or has already occurred—train employees on how to use the system. Maintain and test your system regularly to make sure it is working correctly.
Television or closed-circuit video systems.
It is good to have video surveillance for two reasons: it acts as a deterrent against criminals. It is a means of identifying suspects if criminals break into or damage your property. Sometimes, just seeing a camera on the corner is enough to make a burglar change his mind.
Access control.
An intercom is a relatively inexpensive way to increase security at your business without interfering with visitors’ flow. Combined with an intercom system and a reinforced door, an intercom can provide additional protection.
Use properly placed lights.
More lighting around your business helps reduce the chances of a break-in by illuminating potential hiding places.
Tips on how to act in the event of a burglary
-Remember, your safety is more important than money or inventory.
-Don’t look directly at the thief and keep your hands in plain sight at all times.
-Cooperate with the thief, but don’t talk or give more information than the thief asks for.
-Do not make any sudden movements.
-Inform the thief if another employee is coming from another work area.
-Do not go after the thief; leave that to the police.
-Lock up your business after the robbery and ask witnesses to stay until officers arrive.
-As soon as possible, give a physical description of the thief, how he left the property (address, car model, license plate number), and the type of weapon he used.
-Please do not touch anything the thief may have touched, as he may have left fingerprints.
