Theft and vandalism against business has been growing rapidly, with 28% of businesses reporting an increase from 2021 to 2022, according to a new report.
Only 3% of businesses surveyed in “The State of Physical Security Entering 2023” report by Pro-Vigil reported a decrease in such crimes, while 59% said it had stayed the same.
For small businesses, the theft or destruction of property is especially debilitating and difficult to recoup compared to their larger counterparts.
Burglaries, robberies, and vandalism can be devastating to small businesses in terms of money, customers, and employee safety. Mitigating this risk can be difficult since gaps in insurance may leave firms unprotected.
That’s why crime prevention is so important for business owners looking to protect their assets and employees. Here are some considerations to safeguard your business:
Burglary prevention
Establish and enforce clear policies about employee theft, substance abuse, crime reporting, opening and closing, and other security procedures. Provide training for all employees on these procedures.
Use good locks, safes, and alarm systems, keep detailed inventories and banking records, and have backup copies off-premises. Engrave your company name on valuable office equipment and tools.
Have outside entrances and security doors fitted with deadbolt locks. Security doors should be metal-lined; secure them with metal crossbars and install security hinges or peen hinge pins.
Remove expensive items from window displays. Light the outside, especially around doors and windows, and keep lights covered or high to prevent tampering.
If you have a safe, leave it open when empty, as well as the cash register. Change the combinations and keys when an employee who has had access leaves the business.
Robbery prevention
Robbery does not occur as often as other crimes but, if confronted by a robber, you should cooperate with them — merchandise and cash can be replaced, but people can’t. Employees should greet every person who enters in a friendly manner, as personal contact can discourage a would-be criminal.
Keep windows clear of displays and signs and make sure the business is well-lit. Eliminate any blind spots that may hide a robbery in progress.
Instruct employees to report any suspicious activity or person, and write down any information, like car license plate, for future reference.
Make your bank deposits often, and during business hours. Do not establish a pattern; take different routes and times.
Make sure your physical address is visible so that emergency vehicles can easily find the business.
Put up cameras as a deterrent so you can record activities
Ask law enforcement for advice on alarms, locks, and other security measures.
Vandalism prevention
Annual damage in the United States due to vandalism is in the billions.
Use landscape designs, building materials, lighting or fences to discourage vandals. Clean up any vandalism after it happens, and work with local law enforcement to report vandalism.
Consider organizing a “business watch” that is modeled after the neighborhood watch. Be alert and report suspicious behavior to law enforcement immediately, even if it means taking a chance on being wrong.
The takeaway
Crime and theft prevention are key to keeping your premises, inventory, and machinery safe. You should have in place procedures for all of the above to ensure the safety of your property and your employees.
The standard commercial property insurance policy will usually cover burglary theft and vandalism, but limits will vary among insurers and policies. If you have any questions about your coverage, please email shannon@visualmediaalliance.org or 415-710-0568.