The Right Security for your Business
When it comes to protecting your business from criminals, it’s important to remember that not all situations are the same. A security solution that works for one business won’t necessarily be the best plan for another. One of the keys to having effective security at your business is figuring out the right plan for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
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The layout of your property
- The layout of your property will significantly affect the type of security that is best for your business. If your location has a lot of windows, for example, it is a good idea to focus on physical security tools such as security gates. Smash and grab robberies are common and they are often crimes of opportunity. If a criminal spots a property that has many unprotected windows, they could take this opportunity to strike.
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Possible hazards
- You will also want to review any potential hazards or hiding places around your property. Criminals like to work where they will not be seen, so dark alleys, enclaves, or areas behind planters, pillars, etc. can be used as places to hide.
- Remove any hazards if possible and, for those hazards you can’t get rid of, take steps to eliminate their usefulness as hiding places. Installing lights, surveillance cameras and other such tools will prevent criminals from being able to hide in these locations without being spotted.
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The nature of your business
- Certain businesses are more common targets for criminals. For example, companies that sell small and easy to carry yet valuable items are often bigger targets. This includes drug stores, electronics stores, liquor stores and other similar businesses.
- If you operate a business that is a common target for criminals, you will want to invest in security technology that makes it more difficult to spot valuables from the street (such as locked cabinets) as well as physical tools that make it more difficult for them to gain access.
- Businesses that close for the evening are also common targets for criminals, who prefer to strike at night. This is especially true for business that are located in areas that are relatively deserted at night. Criminals will take advantage of this fact to strike when they think no one is looking. Placing physical barriers between potential criminals and your property will reduce the likelihood of a crime taking place. Installing motion-activated security lights will also help.
Remember that, as times change, so should your security. A set-up that was the best available option at the time may not be the best choice five or six years down the road. Technological changes will introduce new solutions that you may wish to consider. The nature of your business could also change.
Therefore, conducting “security audits” every so often is certainly a good idea. You’ll want to take a look at your current security situation, review the options that are available to you and determine if any changes or improvements are necessary.
By properly considering and regularly reviewing your security situation, you will improve security at your business and make sure that your security solution effectively meets your needs.
Want some more helpful tips to improving the security of your business? Download our helpful guide to Improving Your Security Mindset.
