A total security program is the best way to prevent robberies. The stronger the security image, the less likely the robber is to select your business as a target.
Good visibility, inside and out, is a deterrent. It allows employees to keep an eye on suspicious persons and increases the possibility that someone outside will see if a robbery does occur.
Advertise a cash control policy. Adopt a cash limit and deposit excess in a safe that the cashier cannot open.
Vary your banking routine and camouflage your cash bag in an inconspicuous manner.
Consider installing an alarm.
Surveillance cameras are a good deterrent and provide valuable evidence of robberies.
Record the serial numbers of bait money and keep the record in a safe place. Put the bait money at the bottom of a till section for larger bills, and do not use this money for regular transactions. In the event of a robbery, be sure to give the robber this money.
If you discover a break-in, call the police at once.
Don't disturb evidence of a break-in.
Burglary
Small businesses are targets in more than half of the commercial burglaries committed in Alberta. - Crimes against businesses are usually crimes of opportunity. Have a security check done on your business or check for the following:
Are there shadows or boxes that would conceal a burglar's entry?
Is there merchandise in the display window that is easy to steal?
Is there evidence of an alarm?
Are there hinges on the outside of the door? Are the windows or skylights secure?
Armed Robbery Safety
Even with a strong security program, there is always the chance that a robbery may occur. Employees should be trained on what to do to stay safe during an armed robbery:
Cooperate. Don't argue or try to be a hero. The robber will likely be nervous and may react unpredictably.
Do exactly as he or she asks, and be as polite and accommodating as possible.
Don't make any sudden moves. Tell the robber what you are doing if you have to make an unexpected move.
Observe details of the robber's description. Write everything down as soon as possible without jeopardizing your safety.
Try to get a description of the robber's car and write down the licence number.
Set off the hold-up alarm, but only if you can do so safely and without any obvious movements.
Don't touch the hold-up note or anything else the robber might have touched.
Protect the areas for police examination. Lock the doors immediately after the robber leaves.
