24/08/2022

Keeping Your Business Safe

UK Police just announced that crime has fallen by 28% over lockdown, in fact from 12th April there has been a 37% drop in burglaries. However, it appears that many businesses are left susceptible to such crimes, by not having many or sometimes any security measures in place.

Federation of Small Businesses said 109,391 burglary cases were recorded by businesses last year alone, but a third of businesses don’t actually report the crimes as they feel the police won’t help. It seems as though business owners are ready to take their property protection into their own hands, and we’re extremely proud to be in a position to offer advice, and potentially save people a lot of heartache and money.

1. Protect Valuables
   Just like in a domestic dwelling thieves will target cash or valuables left on show. Invest in a fireproof safe or a locker system for employees to keep high value items locked away, out of site.
2. Intruder Alarm
   Ensure that your property is protected by an intruder alarm which (upon activation) dials a monitoring station or keyholders who can then take the appropriate action, whether that’s calling the police (regulations apply) or a mobile patrol security unit.
3. IP CCTV
   Invest in an external IP camera system which can also be connected to a monitoring station. In the event of suspicious activity around your premises the monitoring station will be alerted and be able to issue a live audible warning as well as carrying out an agreed escalation process which can include calling the police, a mobile security unit and keyholders.
4. Locks
   Make sure your locks are robust and fit for purpose, don’t just rely upon ‘Yale’ locks which can be easily forced, invest in deadlocks on all external doors
5. Fences and Gates
   Ensure that fencing and gates around your business premises is secure and presents a real barrier to entry. This is your first line of defence – make it difficult for thieves to breach it!
6. External Lights
   Thieves like operating in the dark – don’t give them the opportunity! A comprehensive, low voltage lighting system, triggered by movement around your premises will make it uncomfortable for unwanted visitors.

These measures will help keep your business safe in these strange times when so many offices remain unoccupied because of lockdown. The more difficult you make it for thieves the more likely it is that they will bypass your premises in favour of an easier target!