16 Nov
Holiday Security Tips for Businesses
The holiday season is quickly approaching and bringing with it the busiest shopping period of the year. Over the next few months, businesses will see a substantial increase in traffic as customers begin holiday shopping.
While this is great for the financial bottom line, it can be overwhelming for businesses which do not have proper security measures in place: the potential for shoplifting increases as the customer traffic increases.
Holiday Tips
With a little planning, however, you can outsmart the criminals and prevent inventory loss while enjoying the benefits of the holiday rush. It isn’t too early to begin preparing for stepped-up security, both during store hours and after hours.
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you map out your security strategy for the holidays. The effects will be cumulative: the more of these suggestions you can implement, the less likely you will be to suffer significant inventory loss.
During Store Hours
Security Cameras:
Whether during store hours or after hours, one of the best defenses against theft is a security camera. Not only do security cameras deter theft, but in the event a shoplifter makes it out of your business with merchandise, having the video recording makes it much easier to identify the thief.
During the holidays, businesses often hire additional staff. Security cameras also help you keep an eye on new employees
And if you can place the cameras in plain sight, the effect is even greater. If the criminal knows he is being watched, he is much less likely to attempt shoplifting. High traffic areas and store rooms are ideal places for cameras.
Security Guards:
The presence of a security guard sends a clear message to would-be shop lifters: there is a real possibility of being caught right in the store. Having a uniformed guard stationed at the entrance significantly reduces inventory loss, but plain clothed security workers are also effective catching thieves in the act.
If you already have a security guard working in your business, consider hiring another for the holiday rush. You may find that reduction of shoplifting more than compensates for the expense of hiring another security guard.
Communication with employees:
Be sure to let your employees know that it is okay to approach you with their suspicions.
Your employees work right beside your customers, giving them many opportunities to notice suspicious behavior. If they know you will take them seriously, they are more likely to let you know when trouble may be brewing.
After Store Hours:
Lighting:
Thieves rely on secrecy. If you remove secrecy, their job becomes harder. Lighting is one of the best ways to discourage criminal activity.
Make sure all exterior doors are well-lit with permanent fixtures. If possible, place these fixtures out of reach to discourage tampering.
Keep the interior of your business light enough so that activity inside is easily visible from the outside.
Use motion detection lightening to detect movement both inside and outside your business. If a criminal knows he has been detected, he is likely to think twice about staying around.
Alarm System
Not only does a professionally installed alarm system alert you if someone forces his way into your business, but it can also keep him from attempting entry in the first place. Thieves are much less likely to target places which are protected by professional alarm systems. Let criminals know you are protected by placing warning signs in obvious areas, such as near doors and windows.
Include glass break sensors with your alarm system, both on windows and doors. And consider installing point protectors, such as pressure switch mats, in restricted areas. Cash register areas, locked display cases and back offices are good places for these alarms.
Make sure that the holiday shopping period is a profitable time for your business. Start preparing now for the crowds and for your own peace of mind.
Holiday Security Tips for Businesses
Online Shopping Guide : Home and Garden Online Shopping Guide : Baby
