Protecting your business from crime starts with identifying potential risks and implementing smart, proactive security measures. Whether you run a small shop or a large office, evaluating both the exterior and interior of your premises can highlight vulnerabilities that may attract thieves or vandals. From installing surveillance cameras and lighting to understanding the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), these tips will help you create a safer environment for your employees, customers, and assets.

 

To ensure the safety of your business, consider conducting a basic risk assessment. 

 

Exterior 

  • Are the views of your property obscured from the street?
  • Are there any hiding spots around your windows or doors?
  • Is the associated parking lot far away and/or in a poorly observed area?
  • Are there “weapons of opportunity” in the landscaping? (I.e., loose rocks, items that aren’t chained down.) 

Interior 

  • Can strangers enter your building without talking to a receptionist or employee?
  • Do employees take notice of unescorted strangers going beyond the reception area? 

Next steps and tips 

  • Ensure that you have a reliable video surveillance system that is displayed both inside and outside of the premises. Employers should ensure that cameras are checked regularly and are working properly.
  • Increase building and parking visibility from the street.
  • Decrease weapons of opportunity.
  • Ensure all entering customers/clients are visible to an employee.
  • Evaluate lighting, particularly at entrances. Consider motion-activated lights for dark areas.
  • Check for any blind spots in your space where theft could go unnoticed. 
  • Having visible, well-marked signs (i.e., “no cash on premise,” “video cameras onsite”) as they can assist in deterring thieves. 

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) 

For more information on how to design an environment that can reduce incidences of crime for businesses, visit CPTED Canada. 

 

If your business does get broken into, call the police, and avoid entering your business until they arrive. Walking through the crime scene of your business could result in evidence being lost. This can occur by: 

 

  • Stepping on a footwear impression (shoe print) left by the suspect.
  • Touching property that was touched by the suspect.
  • Cleaning up areas that could accidentally remove a piece of evidence needed by the police.