When it comes to the rate of crime there are two schools of thought. Historically, the rate of crime tends to go up as the economy falters. The theory there is that otherwise ‘law abiding’ citizens fear for survival with work opportunities dwindling. However, the opposing theory is that when the economy is good and companies are flourishing, crime rate goes up because criminals are looking for that ‘big payoff.’ In either case, you can see why companies need to have adequate security to protect their property. No matter how you look at it, your property is always at risk. Here are some tips to help you keep your company’s property safe. Also, retail security is really important for your business to secure your commercial space.
1. Set Up a 24/7 Monitored Security System
When it comes to company property, it could be anything inside or on the exterior grounds. Not only are any company vehicles at risk but so too are any items such as loading forks and any other equipment stored outside. A monitored 24/7 security system could include a CCTV camera installation, inside and out as well as windows and doors being ‘wired’ for unauthorized entry. Wired is used loosely in that it can be an electronic eye that upon being broken will trigger an alarm. This can be one of your first lines of defense.
2. Hire Security Guards to Patrol the Premises
While you can contract a company with licensed security guards, you can always onboard experienced security guards to work directly for your company. Many employers prefer this because they have better control of who works for them and will hopefully become a vibrant part of the team. With the rate of ‘violent’ crimes on the rise, your security team should be armed. Many companies have gone to outfitting their guards with both revolvers and rifles, but it should first be a priority to research the laws in your state.
You will often find guards equipped with AR15 rifles because they are a semi-automatic capable of shooting with precision out to 300 yards, often depending on the sight. With the most popular AR15 sights a well-trained guard can accurately hit his target with what may be considered non-lethal impact. Be advised that an AR15 is not an assault rifle but the letters “AR” stand for the original ArmaLite rifle.
3. Limit Access with Keyless Entry
Another very important security feature is to transition to keyless locks with entry codes. These are much easier to change as the need arises and there is no need to have new locks and keys made every time a keyed employee leaves employment. It’s a matter of changing the codes at each entry point, interior and exterior so that disgruntled ex-employees are denied access to the premises for theft or other nefarious purposes. It has become cliché, but by limiting access you are denying an angry ex-employee the opportunity to go postal.
4. Run Criminal Background Checks as Needed
There are a number of reasons why you may want to run criminal background checks upon employment or even periodically throughout their tenure. Not only is theft an issue but so too is violence and a history of either should raise a red flag. However, it should also be known that the legal right to do so is regulated state-by-state. However, federal law requires you to get a signed agreement before running a criminal history. This is also something very important when hiring security for your company.
In the end, properly vetted on-site security guards can work together with your security system as your first line of defense. In some areas of the country the rate of crime is on the rise, and you will want to ensure that your company’s property and employees are safe at all times.
