If it isn’t bad enough, that the Covid-19 pandemic has caused many small businesses to close their doors, our local police services report of a significant spike in calls for break and enters, property theft and vandalism to business properties.
If your business has been forced to close, here are some key crime prevention steps you can take to be less of a target:
- Remove all valuables from storefront displays to reduce smash-and-grab thefts
- Remove all valuables such as cash from the till and leave it open. Place the empty cash tray in plain view on the counter to signal there’s no money in the till
- Remove signage from front windows so police can see the inside unobstructed during patrols
- Remove any items of value away from window displays, place in the back of the store so they are not visible
- Consider installing an alarm monitoring system. If you already have one, ensure the contact list is up-to-date, responders are aware of their duties and process should they get a call, and it is activated when the building is not occupied
- Consider installing a surveillance camera system that can be monitored online by owner/management
- Clearly post signage on the door/window to indicate that the premises are monitored by an alarm company; that no money is kept on the premises and contact information for police and the business owner in case a member of the public sees damage to the property or suspicious activity
- If the premises are closed for an extended period of time clean all glass surfaces and create a tracking log of when cleaning was completed. This may help investigators with suspect fingerprints in the event of a break-in
- Consider applying a laminate on all windows and glass doors to prevent the glass from being broken from blunt force thereby preventing entry during attempted break-in
- Install latch guards on doors to protect against prying including on secondary doors such as employee and loading entrances
- Keep some lighting on inside for surveillance opportunities during the evening
- Ensure all doors are properly secured and regularly check all exterior lighting is functioning
- Remove material around the exterior of the property that may be used to gain entry
- Check on your business daily, both in and out, at different times each day and report any suspicious activity to your local police as soon as possible
- Prevent and reduce the opportunity for crime to occur. Be a good business neighbour, when checking on your property, check on neighbours’ property too
- For more info http://www.stps.on.ca/crime-prevention-tips-for-business-owners/
Taking these steps will make your business less of a target and will ensure you meet the requirements of your insurance policy. Our team is available to assist with any questions or concerns you may have about your coverage during a shut-down. We welcome your call or email inquiry. Stay safe, stay healthy.
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