Don’t Be a Victim: Security Tips for Protecting your Store

Every day, thousands of business owners across the country are victimized by thieves and burglars. With valuable goods on display in storefronts, it’s no wonder that these stores are prime targets for crime.

Entrepreneurs can take preventative steps to secure their stores and protect their assets. By being proactive and following some simple security tips, business owners can minimize their risk of becoming a victim of theft or burglary.

Change your Locks Frequently

Whether during business hours or closing time, keeping doors locked is the number one way to deter thieves and burglars. Although this measure alone might not prevent a crime from occurring, it will slow down any potential perpetrators and increase the likelihood that passersby will notice something suspicious.

In addition to locking doors throughout the day, make sure they are frequently changed. Euro cylinder locks are the ideal type of lock for entryways of all shapes and sizes. They are inexpensive, easy to install, secure, weather-resistant, and fit almost any kind of door. Doing so prevents any intruder from learning how to break in during the night.

Install Alarm Systems

Speaking of alarm systems, these are not exclusively for early morning hours. Businesses can install motion sensors that go off when someone is near the store at night. When motion sensors are activated, they sound an alarm loud enough to wake the dead. Not only will this keep burglars away from your store, but it may also alert a neighbor who can call the police.

In addition to having motion sensors installed, make sure those inside the store know how to use them. Have employees been trained on how to operate the store’s alarm system? Are they aware of how it works, what to do if activated, and when to call for help? If so, you can rest assured that your business takes every necessary step to provide safety.

Put up Warning Signs

When choosing the places to put up warning signs, think about where they won’t be easy for thieves or burglars to ignore. It’s best not to post them in plain sight of your storefront’s window. Doing so makes them look like a joke and will not deter anyone from entering the store.

Instead, choose an inconspicuous spot near the entryway. Most thieves are in a hurry when they break-in, so they are not looking to be seen. Putting signs behind windows or on the back of doors is an easy way to deter criminals without them even realizing it.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Thieves prey on people who do not notice that something suspicious happens around them. Don’t be one of those people.

If you feel unsafe walking to your car at night, it probably is not a good idea to walk alone. You can take a friend or co-worker with you and make the journey back to your vehicle together. If that is not an option, call a taxi or ride-sharing service for a ride to your car.

Friends and family members should not be the only ones looking out for suspicious activity. Business owners need to give themselves a reality check now and again, take an inventory of their surroundings, and make sure they are safe while at work.

Be Prepared

Businesses should prepare an emergency plan in advance if security ever fails them. If thieves manage to a break in, you’ll need a plan of action. Where will everyone go? Are all employees aware they should leave the building when an emergency alarm sounds? Ensure that your staff knows what to do in case lockdown is necessary.

More so, be prepared with an emergency kit that can help you and your employees get through any situation. The kit should include flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, blankets, and food. Having this prepared will keep your employees safe throughout the night and help them get back on their feet if they are forced to leave the building in the middle of the night.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

It is essential to know how your insurance will handle a break-in. For example, some policies limit business owners’ coverage if they fail to install video surveillance on storefront doors. If you are not prepared to cover damages that may occur due to security breaches, it is in your best interest to have these devices installed. Failure to do so can be counted as negligence, which may leave you vulnerable in the event of a break-in.

By taking small steps to help secure your store, you can save money and keep yourself safe from harm. If you own a small business and want to learn more about protecting it, it’s best to talk with a security advisor.