Keeping your business safe from intruders should be a top priority. Replacing stolen stock and repairing the damage from a break-in can grind your company to a financial halt, so it’s important to take as many precautions as possible to prevent intruders from striking. An investment in security now could save you money and stress down the line, so here are 10 tips to keep your business safe.
- Install business alarm systems
Business alarm systems are more sophisticated than ever these days and are designed to offer peace of mind. Advanced systems can detect intrusions in real-time and will send alerts directly to your phone for a faster response. Technology differentiates between people and vehicles meaning only genuine threats are detected.
- Install business camera system
Often, commercial CCTV systems act as a deterrent, scaring away criminals before they decide to act. High-quality camera systems also record crystal clear images across a range of lighting conditions meaning if an intrusion does occur, the footage may be good enough to use as evidence if the case goes to court.
- Adequate locks on doors and windows
It sounds simple, but make sure you have adequate locks on all doors and windows. You could even think about double or triple locking key entry points for extra security. Furthermore, it’s advisable to assign lock-up duties to one or two people to ensure the process is completed thoroughly every day.
- Control property access
Be sure to control access to your business premises with fobs or swipe cards so you can restrict movement and have a record of who is onsite at any given time. If possible, never let random people just walk into your property without someone giving them permission.
- Triple glaze your windows
Another easy way to protect against intruders is to triple glaze your windows. Double or triple glazed windows are really hard to smash because of the toughened glass making it more difficult for people to get in.
- Install external lighting
Many lighting systems work using a sensor and will activate if someone comes near to your business. As with a CCTV camera, this can act as a deterrent, scaring criminals away. A well-lit business premises is undoubtedly harder to target.
- Lock away expensive items
Opportunist thefts will see an item they want and take steps to steal it. To prevent this, keep all expensive equipment away from doors and windows where a smash and grab theft might be possible. You could even secure equipment to walls and floors. The same applies for machinery and outdoor equipment. Lock it up out of sight.
- Visit your premises regularly
Visit your business every single day if possible or make sure there’s someone onsite when you’re not. To stop criminals from working out your daily routine, show up at different times so that your visiting hours are unpredictable.
- Take care on social media
Posting that your business is closed implies no-one will be there. This can result in break-ins and thefts, so think carefully about what you put on social media.
- Have a skeleton staff during holidays
Intrusions happen frequently during holiday periods when offices and businesses are closed. To reduce the risk, employ a skeleton staff to keep the company going during important celebrations or pop in yourself to make sure everything is secure.