Protecting Your Business from Burglars

business safetyAl Feldman
Your business is more than just a career; it's your passion and livelihood, too. As an entrepreneur, you invest ample cash, time, and dedication to running a successful company — it only makes sense to give your precious organization the protection it deserves. Where you see an admirable and growing business venture worthy of recognition, a burglar sees an opportunity to make a quick buck and get out of dodge. A new burglary takes place once every ten seconds. With the increasing frequency of theft, your corporate premise requires just as much care and attention as your home when it comes to minimizing risk and protecting valuables. Take the following steps to decrease the likelihood of being targeted for theft and defend your organization’s assets in the event of a burglary.

Step 1: Set up an Alarm System

If you're running your business on a budget, it's tempting to avoid investing in an alarm system, as they can seem overly expensive. However, the costs of an alarm system can far outweigh the potential risks of a break-in. This is especially true if a burglary results in a loss of cash, resources (physical and digital), or critical documents. As new technology enters the marketplace, there's a vast range of alarm systems available for companies to choose from. Generally, business owners should consider installing motion-detecting equipment around the exterior of their building. Some modern systems can even automatically transmit images to a remote computer or phone, for extra diligent protection.

Step 2: Lock Out Intruders

A strong lock will help to discourage nervous thieves. At a minimum, it will force a courageous burglar to work harder, allowing more time for the police to arrive after your alarm system is triggered. Some experts recommend using a "pin-cylinder" lock, which can’t be opened with a simple credit card or piece of plastic. One test by Consumer Reports found that a majority of locks can be broken into using just a cordless drill, making it important to be diligent when choosing your lock type. Remember, you'll need an effective lock for your windows, as well as your doors. Many thieves will attempt to gain access through alternative routes if they can't break through the doorway. Using security glass in your windows makes it monumentally difficult for thieves to smash their way through when your lock proves to be too much of a challenge.

Step 3: Light Up the Premises

Based on a report from the University of North Carolina about 60% of convicted burglars admitted that the sight of a security system stopped them from targeting a specific property. A strategically placed lighting system that automatically activates when it detects motion could be the perfect way to put criminals off, before they have chance to commit a crime. Think carefully about where you'll situate each flood light. Ideally, you'll place a bulb at every entry point, including around large vents and windows. At the very least, motion-detected lighting will push a thief to work faster, which could cause them to leave valuable items behind.

Step 4: Catch the Break-in on Camera

Video systems have become increasingly affordable for companies. Most business owners today should be able to invest in a small web-based video system, which can send information directly to their computer or phone when capturing images both inside and outside of the premises. The value of catching a criminal on camera cannot be overstated. Even though your surveillance system might not stop someone from breaking into your property, there's a chance that it could make it easier for police officers and detectives to track the criminal down and retrieve your stolen goods. You can even install cameras inside your building to keep an eye on any employees and others who go in and out of the building on a regular basis. Remember, 95% of employees admit that they've stolen from an employer at least once. It never hurts to be cautious.

Step 5: Install Safes to Protect Your Valuables

Protecting your company from burglars means making it as difficult as possible for those criminals to access the sensitive documents, cash, and assets that are crucial to your business. Even if your venture doesn't stock valuable items, make sure that checks and money you routinely handle are safe and secure. While it's best to deposit large amounts of cash into the bank as quickly as you can, you can always keep cash in a high quality depository safe, to protect it from theft and fire until you can make a deposit. Select your safe based on the valuables you want to protect and the level of protection you need. When you browse burglary resistant and fire-resistant safe models, be sure to check each safe’s ratings from the Underwriters Laboratories. Just because a safe is a large, heavy box doesn’t make it impossible to steal. With persistence, thieves may remove even the heaviest items from business premises. It’s best to have your safe firmly bolted to the floor or installed securely in the wall, to make it more difficult for thieves to take it with them. When you’ve put so much of your time and effort into helping your business succeed, it makes a big difference to know that you’re doing all you can to protect it. Browse our selection of high quality, trusted safes for businesses or contact our knowledgeable staff to ask about which safes are best suited for your needs.
Tags: Business safety