The safety of your business should be one of your top priorities. After all, your business is your livelihood. You’ve worked hard to build it up, and the last thing you want is for it to be destroyed by a break-in or act of vandalism. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to improve the security of your office and deter would-be criminals.
Here are some tips for better business security in your office.
1. Install security cameras.
This is one of the most effective ways to deter crime and catch criminals. Ensure the cameras are visible and well-maintained, so potential criminals know they’re being watched. Some businesses also post signs warning that security cameras are in use. This can be an effective deterrent, as criminals don’t want to be caught on camera.
You can also work with a security company to have someone monitor your cameras remotely. This way, if something does happen, help can be dispatched immediately. You can also review the footage later to see what happened and identify the perpetrator. If you have outdoor cameras, be sure to trim back any foliage that could obscure their view.
2. Keep your doors and windows locked.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many businesses leave their doors and windows unlocked, making themselves an easy target for criminals. Always lock up when you’re closed for business. Check the locks regularly to make sure they’re in good working order. If you have sliding glass doors, consider installing a metal rod or piece of wood in the track to make it more difficult for someone to force their way in.
It would be best if you also opted for a more secure lock mechanism. Magnetic locks are a good choice, as they’re challenging to pick. This type of lock is often used in commercial settings, such as office buildings and retail stores. If you have a keypad lock, change the code regularly to keep it from being guessed.
3. Invest in a good alarm system.
A loud alarm is an excellent deterrent for criminals and can also help alert the authorities if a break-in does occur. Test your alarm system regularly to ensure it’s working correctly. You should also have a backup power source for the system in case of a power outage. This way, your alarm will still work even if the power goes out.
Businesses with alarm systems must often post signs informing people that the premises are protected. This is another good deterrent, as criminals don’t want to risk setting off an alarm. Ensure the signs are visible and well-maintained. You can also add security stickers to your doors and windows.
4. Keep valuables out of sight.
If potential criminals can see valuable items through your windows, they will likely target your business. Keep valuables stored away in a safe or locked cabinet when they’re not in use. Many companies also choose to install security films on their windows. This makes it more difficult for criminals to see what’s inside and can help hold the glass together if the window is broken.
A drop safe is an excellent way to keep valuables out of sight. You can only open this type of safe with a key or combination. The drop safe is placed in a locked cabinet or drawer, and the key or combination is only given to authorized personnel. Only those who need to access the valuables can do so. You can also use a time-delay safe, which requires a certain amount of time to be passed before you can open it.
5. Educate your employees on security protocol.
Your employees are the first line of defense regarding security, so they must know what to do in an emergency. Make sure they know how to properly lock up at night, who to contact if they see something suspicious, and what to do if a break-in does occur. Many businesses hold regular security training sessions to ensure that their employees are up-to-date on best practices.
It would help if you also had a security policy in place that outlines the procedures for dealing with various security threats. This policy should be reviewed regularly and updated as needed. All employees should be familiar with the policy and know where to find it. If they need to reference it, they should be able to do so quickly and easily.
By following these simple tips, you can help make your office a less attractive target for criminals and improve the overall security of your business. Don’t wait until it’s too late—implement these measures today and sleep soundly, knowing that your office is safe and secure. You can give yourself and your employees peace of mind with a little effort.
