With cybercrime posing an increasing security risk to businesses there’s a real danger that physical security measures are being overlooked as the focus shifts to online fraud and hacking. Physical security measures are our bread and butter, it’s what we’ve been doing for Midlands-based firms for over forty years.
We know the products, the risks, and the specific issues facing the variety of types of location and environment you’ll find in this diverse geographic area, from the quiet streets of Tenbury Wells to the high crime areas of West Bromwich.
What we’re finding with some new business clients is that they’ve overlooked their risk of physical crime, either because they aren’t aware of the crime rates in their neighbourhood or they’re too narrowly focused on online threats. Here are the top 4 physical security mistakes you can’t afford to make.
1. Overlooking entry and exit routes that aren’t the main door
It’s a quirk of human nature that we tend to focus most on the things we use the most – if we always enter a shop we own through the back door we may not be as tight with the security of the front door, or of loading bay doors. It’s not just at night that you need to lock these up – they should be secured when not in use. Criminals can easily sneak in through an open loading door and take your stock without you noticing.
An alarm system that can be set to cover these rear doors while the rest of the store is open and occupied would be a great idea. This is especially important in locations where the back and loading doors are easily accessible to the public and where there are few other deterrents to thieves.
2. Overlooking the threats from inside the building
Internal theft is a big problem for businesses whether it’s pilfering cash, or stock to be sold on the black market. Using CCTV indoors and running proper background checks on employees is the minimum you should be doing. It is wise to rotate staff so there’s always someone trustworthy on the premises keeping a watchful eye on others, especially new staff or temporary workers who aren’t invested in your business success.
3. Oversimplifying your security measures
None of our new business clients are doing nothing about security. They all have some measures in place; perhaps a CCTV camera, basic alarm system, or some motion sensitive lights The issue is that there is always more that can be done.
If you rely on one method, strategy or product you’re leaving yourself open to attack. Having a visible alarm system, plus CCTV (monitored, with cameras that can be moved to track trespassers), and security fencing with motion sensitive lighting provides several obstacles to crooks. Diversify your security strategies to make your business premises seem like Fort Knox.
4. Relying on existing building features
This is especially relevant to business owners with a short lease – upgrading doors, windows and external fencing seems like a lost investment but relying on that rickety old main door, or a wooden fence for security is a mistake. Invest in better quality doors, toughened glass for windows and steel shutters or fences to put yet another obstacle in the way of criminals.
We hope you’re not making any of these mistakes, but we have the solutions to these problems if that’s something your business needs for a safer 2024. Call P&R Alarms today and we’ll correct these oversights together.