Systemize Physical Security in Your Business

It's tragic that we continue to hear of those who lose their lives during a robbery. My heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones, and those whose businesses were terrorized.

I'm not a security expert. My purpose here is to entreat all businesses to create systems and training so you know what to do if the worst happens.

Nobody wants to think that their business will be victimized by crime. However, I'm sure you would rather be prepared than surprised if it happens. There are many resources you can check with, both security consultants and websites, to give you a complete list of security measures. The items I list below are just a few to get you thinking about this very important subject

Considering the topic, an ounce of prevention is worth far more than a pound of cure. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Keep the area around your business well lit, especially around the entrances.
• Eliminate hiding spots such as large shrubs or trees.
• Plant low, thorny hedges around windows.
• Install security cameras.
• Keep your building and grounds well maintained.
• Never schedule workers to be alone in the building early in the morning or late at night.
• Install an alarm system, including an easy way to alert police of an emergency.
• Never allow criminals to believe that it will be easy to target your business. If they think it will be difficult, chances are they won't.

So, what if the worst happens and your business is being attacked? Here are a few thoughts.

• Stay calm. This is extremely important, because the criminal is probably already on edge.
• Be polite and cooperative at all times. In fact, tell the perpetrator that you will cooperate and do whatever he says. Your object is to get him out of the building as quickly as possible.
• Give the thief everything that he asks for as quickly as possible and don't try to hide anything. Typically, that's all they want. You can always recover a monetary loss; you can never get a life back.
• After the criminal has left and as soon as it's safe, call 911. Do not chase or follow him.
• Don't allow anyone to enter the building until the police arrive and can assure your safety.

The most valuable advice I can give will be to systemize the procedures that you decide to use. Keep in mind that it's not a system until it's documented. Re-visit your systems on a regular basis to ensure they are up-to-date. Then create training for your employees to ensure that everyone knows these systems inside and out. Be sure to include security as a part of training for every new employee.

Remember, nothing is 100% foolproof; but you owe it to your staff to do your utmost to keep them safe.

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