The revenue from your small business is hard-won, and the last thing that should compromise its profitability is theft. Unfortunately, many small business owners overlook this key component to a successful business, or are lax in the implementation of security policies. Establishing a secured premises is easier than it may sound, as long as you consider these three components.
1. Visual Security
Take a look at your building at night—is each and every entry point well lighted? Are the light fixtures used tamper proof? If there are shady doorways, or lights that can be easily broken or removed, the building is susceptible to break ins. Make sure thieves don’t get the luxury of breaking into your building in the privacy of darkness. The lighting on the interior of the building also needs to be considered. When the interior lights are on, and you’re standing outside of the building at night, can you see the people inside the building? If the answer is no, then you need to adjust your lighting strategy. If thieves feel confident that they can work in privacy once they’re inside, they’re more likely to make your building a target. Finally, make sure that you are able to see each entry point in the store from key positions inside the building. Can cashiers see the front door without turning around? Can the person sitting closest to the back door see it without standing up? If not, then make use of convex mirrors to keep visual contact with these entry points. This allows for a quick reaction if a break in is in progress.
2. Physical Barriers
Once your property is well lighted and entry points are visible, take a moment to think about what physical barriers might be effective at deterring thieves. Is there a logical place for a hedge or a fence? If a hedge seems like the right solution, keep it wide and low. If a fence seems like the appropriate choice, make sure you can see through it. A tall hedge or solid fence will obstruct the visual line from the street or parking lot, which is counterproductive. Next, think about windows and doors. The windows should be filled with safety glass, so that it’s more difficult to break for access. If the window does get broken, you’ll want to be sure that the lock on the window is difficult or find or open through that broken window. Finally, make sure each and every exterior door has a deadbolt, not just a handle lock.
3. Security System
Now that the building itself is secure, it’s time to bring in the last line of defense—the security system. Visual security and physical barriers generally help to prevent theft attempts, while security systems very often are the best defense against attempted break ins. The system you choose should include motion sensors to cover the interior, along with point of entry alarms at the doors and windows. It could also include specific point protectors, like a pressure switch mat. This is a good choice for high security areas, perhaps where particularly expensive merchandise is stored.
Keeping your business premises secure is vital to keeping money in your pocket and creating a successful business venture. By using light, convex mirrors, hedges or fences, locks, and a reliable security system you’ll be able to rest well at night knowing that your investment is safe.
See Also:
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- Business to Business Sales Training
- 10 Things You Need to Know Before Starting a Home Business
- Five Unusual Business Ideas
- 7 Tips to Finding More Clients
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- Keeping Worker’s Compensation Insurance Affordable
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Clair Taylor is an avid blogger. If you want to increase the security and safety of your business, consider installing convex mirrors.