Tips for preventing burglaries
Around this time of year, we see countless lists of tips for preventing home burglaries, but what about your business? For business owners, the risk of burglary during the holiday season is quite high. Every year, 1 in 10 businesses is the victim of a burglary. Effective security measures can prevent or minimize a lot of trouble. Below, SERIS offers you a number of tips for a safe holiday season.
1. TAKE STEPS THAT ARE APPROPRIATE FOR YOUR RISK LEVEL
Think about the risks your business faces. Is there anything of value that burglars might target, such as computers, machinery, or attractive merchandise? If so, adjust your security measures accordingly, such as installing an alarm system, security cameras, and fencing. It goes without saying that these measures should not be limited to the holiday season.
2. CONDUCT RANDOM MOBILE PATROLS
A private security company can enhance security through (random) mobile patrols. The visible presence of a mobile security guard has a clear deterrent effect, causing burglars to avoid your business. Ensure that the mobile security guard patrols your premises at varying times to avoid a predictable pattern. This approach makes it harder for burglars to plan their attacks, even during the holiday season.
3. ENSURE THAT A KEY HOLDER IS AVAILABLE
You have agreed with the alarm monitoring center on the actions to be taken if the alarm goes off at your business. Double-check the list of key holders and ensure that a key holder is always available, even during the holidays. You can also designate a private security company as a key holder. That way, you or your employee won’t be woken up in the middle of the night by a phone call asking you to come to the premises in the event of an alarm. It’s both convenient and safe.
4. GET AN EXTRA PAIR OF EYES
It’s easier for burglars to break into your business if no one is keeping an eye on your premises. Ask your neighbors or nearby residents if they’d be willing to keep an eye out. You can also consider joining a shared security system for the business park.
5. SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS
A commercial building that is poorly lit or not lit at all is an attractive target. Install outdoor lighting with a vandal-resistant housing in dark areas. A twilight switch or motion sensor ensures that the lights turn on and off at the right time. Outdoor lighting intended to deter burglars is only effective if neighbors or nearby residents can see the illuminated area; otherwise, you are inadvertently helping the burglar carry out their activities.
6. MAKE YOUR BUSINESS VISIBLE
If your property is surrounded by tall trees and bushes, this increases the risk of a break-in. Make sure your business is clearly visible from the street—that way, burglars will be visible too.
7. REMOVE STEPPING STONES
Don’t make it easy for potential intruders—remove any “stepping stones” such as crates, pallets, rocks, and the like. Bring ladders inside and install anti-climb brackets on downspouts.
8. NOT HERE? LOCK IT UP!
You have fitted your windows and doors with an SKG lock appropriate for your risk level. The burglary resistance is 3 minutes (2 stars) or 5 minutes (3 stars). On outward-opening doors, you must install at least 3 anti-lift devices, security hinges, and anti-burglary strips.
SERIS wishes you a pleasant and safe vacation.
