Emery’s V.P. Security

Tips for businesses shuttered during coronavirus pandemic

By Sean Delaney

The Emery Village BIA’s security team offers the following tips for business owners shutting down for extended periods:

Remove all valuables from storefront displays.

Remove all cash from tills and leave open with the cash trays out and visibly empty.

Keep some lighting on inside the building to help with the quality of video surveillance and consider placing lights on timers if possible to simulate activity.

Clean all windows and floors before leaving and note when you’ve done so (maintain a log) as this will help investigators should there be a break-in.

Post on doors/windows that the premises are monitored by an alarm company, and no money is kept on site.

Consider putting a protective film/laminate on all windows/glass to discourage and help prevent easy entry via “smash-and-grab.”

Ensure all doors and windows are properly locked and secure.

Ensure security alarm systems work correctly, and contact lists are current .

Consider a CCTV surveillance system which can both be monitored remotely by phone/online and record images to review for an investigation.

Ensure all exterior lighting is functioning and on. Consider motion sensor lights as another option to detect and deter unlawful activity.

Remove anything on the exterior which could be used to gain entry to your premises (bricks, ladders, poles, construction materials, etc.).

Regularly check the building and keep track of when you check (maintain a log) but go at different times so as not to be predictable to criminals.

Note: Police remind property owners that like residential theft, if a business looks neglected, it can become a target.

“If it looks cared for and looks like someone is home or around, thieves will move on to other locations.”