Tips for improving security at drug stores and pharmacies to prevent smash grab robberies, shoplifting, and properly restrict access within the store
Securing Pharmacies and Drug Stores
Pharmacies and drug stores are common targets for criminals. There are many reasons why. One reason is that item stolen from these stores can easily be resold on the black market for profit. This includes medication (both prescription and non-prescription) but it also includes other items that are commonly stocked by drug stores, such as baby formula, razor blades, make-up, and other similar items.
Deterring Smash and Grab Robberies
Criminals target pharmacies and drug stores not just because the items are valuable, but also because they can easily be taken from the scene of a crime. In a smash and grab burglary, for example, the robbers aim to be in and out of a property as quickly as possible. If the items they are stealing are heavy, large, or difficult to move, they’ll be slowed down and are more likely to be caught. However, by stealing small items from drugs stores and pharmacies, they are able to get in and out quickly and there’s a greater likelihood that they will get away.
With securing drug stores and pharmacies physical security help deter such crimes. They place a strong physical and visual barrier between criminals and the items they wish to steal. Unlike alarm systems and surveillance cameras, security gates keep criminals out. In many cases, criminals choose targets based on how difficult their security appears from the outside. Alarm systems can alert the authorities to a crime, but they don’t stop the crime from taking place. Surveillance cameras can capture evidence, but they can be fooled by masks or hoods. Criminals know this. When they see a property that has gates installed, however, they think twice about the situation and usually end up choosing a different target.
Access Control
While protecting your property from smash and grab robberies is important, so is providing strong access control. There are many reasons to restrict access in drug stores and pharmacies. One important reason is that it prevents shoplifting. Restricting access to stock rooms or areas behind the counter prevents anyone from walking into these areas and taking items. The same is true for using gates to protect small yet valuable items that are commonly stolen, such as many over-the-counter medications and other assets. By placing gates in front of these areas and items, you prevent criminals from being able to take advantage of distractions and sneak items into their pockets or bags.
Using gates for access control is also important for complying with local laws. For instance, in many areas, certain medications cannot be sold without a pharmacist present. However, a lot of drug stores and pharmacies are open late at night (or 24 hours a day) and this means there is not always a pharmacist working. The solution is to use physical security gates to restrict access to areas or aisles that sell restricted items.
Security gates are very easy to lock into place and they serve as a strong physical and visual barrier. This means that not only will customers not be able to gain access to areas that are off limits, but they can also easily see that these areas are restricted. This makes it easier for store staff who do not have to spend as much time explaining the situation.
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