Security is an integral part of running any store or small business. If your store is your livelihood, you want to ensure it’s safe from invasions. You risk losing inventory, profit, and even theft by fraud or physical burglary. These problems can ruin your ability to conduct business.
A small business store is an easy target for would-be thieves. Most small business owners don’t have the additional resources of a large corporation. They must find creative ways to protect their store from being broken into. Here are a few best practices to secure your small business store.
1. CCTV Cameras
CCTV cameras are an excellent investment for any store owner who wants a 24-hour surveillance system. They make it easy to check in on your store anytime, anywhere. You can live stream the cameras to your smartphone or your computer. The footage can be reviewed and saved on a hard drive.
The higher the resolution, the higher quality of your video will be. You’ll also want to look for a camera with night vision capabilities. A high-quality night vision camera is essential to protecting your business all day and night. You can even set up a security camera bought from a trusted security camera system store for the outside perimeters of your business. The images captured are sharp and clear. You can make out the facial features of anyone who passes by.
2. Intruder Alarm Systems
Intruder alarms make a loud, shrill sound alerting you if someone breaks into the store. They’re easy to install, and they’re reasonably priced. You can buy an alarm designed to arm and disarm through a smartphone. You can control your entire system anywhere you have an internet connection. The alarm will send you a text message or email alert if someone tries to break in.
Sign up for a security alarm monitoring service. They can connect you directly with the police in case of an intrusion. The police can see exactly where your store is and respond accordingly. You’ll also want to go with a company that offers 24/7 monitoring. You never know when your store might get broken into. Constant coverage is the best way to be on top of things.
3. Use High-Quality Locks
When shopping for a lock, you want to look for a hardened steel body and a hardened steel shackle. A hardened steel shackle is particularly important because they are resistant to bolt cutters, hacksaws, and crowbars. These types of locks will protect your store from most basic burglaries. You’ll also want to look for an anti-pry bar lock.
A deadbolt lock is also a great way to protect your store. The bolt goes through the door. They are tough to kick open. You can also secure your doors with a folding door bar. This type of bar keeps the door from being pushed open. It can also keep a door from swinging all the way shut.
4. Secure Your Windows
Use security grilles with multiple locking points and window handles for added protection. During installation, the grilles can be drilled into the frame. This makes it more challenging to break through. The best way to avoid window break-ins is to keep your windows locked at all times.
Modern windows are easy to secure. You’ll want to be sure that you’re using the best type of lock for your windows. A simple sliding deadbolt will lock into place, keeping the window secure through a threaded latch. This type of lock provides excellent security for your store’s windows.
5. Buy Business Insurance
The coverage can help you avoid paying for expensive repairs and replacements. This will help you replace missing inventory and other items lost or damaged during a break-in or an attempted burglary. You’ll also want to look into coverage for business interruption, which helps you pay your overhead while your store is closed due to an incident.
Choose a policy that fits with how you operate your business. You’ll want to check out local rates and study your potential risk for break-ins. The coverage you choose should be adequate and affordable. You should also consider coverage for bodily injury or property damage. This will help compensate your employees if they get injured during a break-in.
Protecting your store is crucial to the longevity of your business. When shopping for security equipment, look for something tough and durable. Business burglaries are a genuine concern for small businesses. You need the proper insurance coverage and a security system that works at all hours of the day.
