Criminals are Opportunists
The main methods for deterring commercial theft are about removing opportunities for criminals. 
Deterrence requires that business owners increase their awareness of security equipment, measures, policies and procedures from the point of view of a criminal. Healthy, but increased suspicion and curiosity are both required of business owners who wish to seek out vulnerabilities in their business security plan.
What to Include in a Security Survey
When examining your place of business, vigilance and thought pay off. Do not assume that your current security equipment and measures are adequate until you have truly given thought as to how a determined intruder might defeat them. Examine all of the following areas closely:
- Interior and exterior lighting should eliminate shadows that could conceal an intruder. Place lights out of easy reach and use long-life bulbs. Install backup lights on all entrances including any on the roof. Make sure parking areas are well lit.
- Carefully examine all doors and frames, including interior doors. Ask yourself how easy it would be to pry the door or frame with a crowbar. Install only heavy, reinforced doors. Make certain frames are fastened into the sub-framing with long screws or bolts. If you have any concerns about the solidity of building entrances, ask a construction contractor or a locksmith for an inspection.
- Likewise, check the integrity of window frames and the types of locks on windows that open. Windows should lock at all corners to resist prying such as pin locks that extend into the sub-frame. Make sure that window glass is impact-resistant. Laminated wire mesh panes or steel bars should be used on first-floor windows.
- High quality locks are essential to deterring would-be intruders. Most locks purchased from hardware stores are easily overcome by twisting, picking, key bumping or drilling. The best locks have tamper-proofing features such as hardened steel, bump-proof cylinders and latches that extend into the doorframe. Add deadbolts to all doors and easily accessible windows. If a particular entrance is used frequently during business hours, consider adding electronic access and tracking to that entrance.
- Have an HVAC contractor do a careful inspection of your business’ ventilation system to ensure that it cannot be used to gain entry.
- Install drop safes at registers and a safe that is well secured to the floor for longer-term storage of money or other valuables. Make sure the safe is well lit and in a visible location.
Two-way Visibility is Critical
In order that employees can monitor any danger on the outside of your building and that witnesses on the outside have a clear view to the interior, clear all windows of obstructions. Keep indoor and outdoor plants well away from windows. Do not stack boxes close to windows.
Install a State-of-the-art Alarm System
Modern electronic security systems do far more than simply set off sirens. In conjunction with cameras and other types of sensors, they enable full visibility and control of every corner of your business premises. Furthermore, with Internet access, you can perform all functions from a smartphone.
Get Expert Advice on Security
Should you have any concerns or need more information on the best methods to secure your place of business, do not hesitate to contact the experts at Aim Lock and Safe, Ltd. in Milton. We will be pleased to answer all your questions and explain the security features of the products we carry.
