Quick & Easy Security Tips for Local Retailers
Retail crime is something on every small business owner’s mind, especially around the holiday season. Even if a business carries insurance, the out-of-pocket cost can reach thousands of dollars for lost inventory, property damage, and business interruptions. The best approach for companies is being proactive by embracing modern security services to keep their businesses safer.
SIMPLE STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TODAY
Stop Crime With Visual Deterrents
One of the easiest, yet most effective ways to prevent crimes from occurring at your business is to alert would-criminals you are prepared for them. You can do this by posting signs your premises is under 24-hour video surveillance, even if it is not. Attach a height marker to your doorframe and add a sticker to your cash register which states excess cash is deposited in a drop safe employees cannot access.
Train Your Employees To Spot Criminal Activity
Talk to your workers about warning signs of a potential robbery such as waiting for other customers to leave the store before approaching the register or loitering outside the store until a few minutes before closing time. Tell employees how they should react during a robbery and what they need to do immediately after one.
Avoid Surprises By Improving Visibility
Keep displays low to make it easier to see what everyone in the store is doing. If there are blind spots in your store, install a wide-angle mirror to monitor the area. Don’t forget about what is going on outside. Don’t use window displays that obscure your line-of-sight.
Switch Things Up
Change the time and route you take your daily deposit to the bank. Criminals will often spend days watching to learn your habits before they make their move. Never carry money in your hand, and if possible, try to have at least two people make the drop-off.
PROFESSIONAL SECURITY MEASURES YOU NEED TO CONSIDER
Install Security Doors and Gates
Criminals have little trouble breaking into most businesses after hours. Standard locks and plate-glass windows will do very little to stop a committed robber armed with a baseball bat or crowbar. Installing top-quality deadbolts and security gates are much more effective.
Add a Safe
Businesses with valuable merchandise that remains at the store overnight need to secure their inventory in high-quality safes. Make sure the safe you choose is designed for security and not just for protection against fires. Have a professional security company install your safe for more peace of mind.
Install an Alarm System
Modern alarm systems will alert the police and you that someone broke into your business. Choose an alarm that connects directly with the local police department instead of a monitoring service. If you purchase a silent alarm, find how to add a panic button to use during a robbery when staff are on site.
Contact The Flying Locksmiths
The most effective method of ensuring the safety of your store, employees, and shoppers is to call The Flying Locksmiths. Call 800-649-5397 today to schedule a free, contactless business security consultation.