Burglary can be devastating for any business. The loss of stock, damage to premises and disruption to operations can seriously impact your bottom line. As a business owner, it's important to take steps to prevent burglaries and reduce the risks. Here are some top tips for burglary prevention in your UK business:
Secure Your Premises
The first line of defence is making your business premises as secure as possible. Install high-quality locks on all external doors and windows, including those leading to stock rooms or upstairs offices. If the worst does happen, call a Cardiff locksmith like Curley Locks to replace all the locks. A 24 hour Cardiff locksmith is what you need in an emergency.
Consider fitting security grilles on ground floor windows and shutters on doors after closing each day. Ensure there are no weak or hidden access points a burglar could take advantage of.
Install an intruder alarm that is monitored by a security company. CCTV cameras covering internal and external areas also act as a deterrent and provide evidence if a break-in does occur. Good exterior lighting at entrances, exits and vulnerable spots removes hiding places for burglars.
Control Access
Limit access to non-public areas of your premises. Keep back doors locked and the number of keys to a minimum. Deactivate old keys and don't leave spares lying around. Have robust procedures for staff keys, ID passes and alarm codes. Require visitors to sign in and don't allow anyone to tailgate staff into secure areas.
Ensure you have adequate physical security for high-value items. Safes, cages and lockable cupboards make stealing stock more difficult. Secure IT equipment, which is both valuable and contains sensitive data.
Work with Staff
Train staff on security procedures and encourage them to be vigilant. Brief cleaning and maintenance contractors on access restrictions. Ensure someone is responsible for locking up each evening and set an alarm. Ask staff to look out for suspicious activity like unfamiliar vehicles near premises.
Involve staff in assessing vulnerabilities. Encourage vigilance and refresher training. Make sure that no one person has responsibility for both physical security systems and auditing them.
Connect with Neighbours
Talk to neighbouring businesses about cooperating on security, such as sharing CCTV monitoring or evening patrols. Agree on removing hiding places like overgrown vegetation. Exchange details of suspicious activity noted or cars seen casing premises.
Join local business watch schemes and neighbourhood alert networks. Share intelligence on local burglary activity and suspects. Use online tools like Facewatch to share information and CCTV images.
Maintain Vigilance
Keep improving security provisions in response to any vulnerabilities noted or industry experience. Vary security routines so they are not predictable. Review procedures when staff leave. Check for weak spots when doing maintenance work.
Be extra vigilant around seasonal peaks like Christmas when stock levels are high. Brief temps and seasonal staff thoroughly on security protocols. Watch for unusual interest in your deliveries or emptied premises.
Following these tips can help minimise the risks and prevent your business from becoming an easy or appealing target for burglars. Ongoing vigilance, adapting security in response to risks, and cooperating with neighbours will go a long way towards keeping your premises and assets secure.