Burglary

Burglary is a property crime that occurs when the business is closed. The burglar may enter through any opening (door, window, air conditioning duct, skylight) or even create one through an interior shared wall or an outside wall. Reduce your risk as much as possible. Burglary is a crime of opportunity that can be prevented.

• Surveillance and Security are Critical
• Lighting. Install bright interior and exterior lighting to make all openings visible from both the outside and the inside of your business.
• Locks and Safes. Purchase high-quality door locks and use them. Grilles and storefront grates delay entry. Use an Underwriters Laboratory listed money safe, bolted to the floor and visible from the street.
• Entry Control. Know who has a key and restrict access to the front door. Re-key the lock if a once-trusted employee is discharged for cause. Re-key locks annually if you have high turnover of employees. Consider an access control system rather than keys.
• Intrusion Alert. Install a good quality alarm system to detect unauthorized entry.
• Windows. Consider burglary-resistant glass in accessible areas. Unbreakable polycarbonate may work even better, particularly if you have high-value items in window displays.
• Environment. Keep areas around the store clean to aid visibility. Display your most valuable articles near the center of the store to force a burglar to take the longest possible escape route. Keep merchandise displays organized to allow maximum visibility throughout the store. Check closets and restrooms before you lock up. You don't need an unwanted visitor staying inside your store after closing hours.

If confronted by a robber, stay as calm as possible. Try not to panic or show any signs of anger or confusion.

Consider your well-being and that of your employees as the highest priority. Don't escalate the incident into a violent confrontation in which someone may be injured or killed.
Make a conscious effort to get an accurate description of the robber(s): age, race, complexion, body build, height, weight, type and color of clothing.
After the robber leaves, call police immediately.

Employees and Crime

Employees can help you to be profitable or hurt you through waste, inattention to customers, or stealing. You must set the example for honesty and develop clear policies regarding security and theft.

• Develop and advise all employees of inventory control procedures. All merchandise entering and exiting your premises should be accounted for.
• Screen employees carefully before hiring them. Check their backgrounds to be sure they have not been fired for behavior you find is dangerous or unacceptable.
• Train employees in proper cash handling and security measures. Set policy regarding cash on hand and stick by it.
• Research shows that employees steal from businesses that are impersonal to them and lack clear policies. Show employees you care about them and their property.
• Provide a clean and orderly work environment with secure places for their personal belongings.
• Offer them personal child protection and home crime prevention information obtained from local law enforcement agencies and national organizations.
• Support their involvement in community organizations formed to prevent crime and help crime victims.