Blog Post

From Code Locks to Security Guards: Ways to Improve Security in Retail

  • By Guardian Security
  • 09 Mar, 2020
Security keypad

In any business, the security of your employees and assets should always be a top priority. As a business owner, it is your responsibility to assess the risk of crime in your business and take the appropriate steps to reduce it - whether that’s by installing code locks or hiring security guards to protect your commercial property. 

In retail, security is particularly important. From shoplifters to employee theft, there are lots of things to keep an eye out for, and plenty of preventative measures you can put in place. Below, we take a look at ways to improve security in retail, and share our top tips to make sure your shop is as safe as possible.


Map out your shop

When planning the most effective ways to enhance security in your shop, you should start by mapping out the floor. Planning for crowds will be far easier when you have a visual aid, and looking at your shop from a bird's eye view will make it easier to decide what security measures to put in place. 

When creating the map, identify all entrances, exits and other important spaces such as the till area or aisles where there are particularly expensive items. This will help you plan what security measures are needed where, and can also help you plan how you’re going to manage traffic flow.


Install code locks and door entry systems

Access control technology allows retailers to control and limit who can enter certain areas of a shop. There are certain areas that you should restrict, such as the stock room or break rooms where employees relax and take a break. When you install code locks, you assign your employees unique codes that allow them access to these areas. This ensures that only they can enter restricted rooms and helps to keep intruders out of unwanted areas where you may have important documents or valuable items. 

If something goes missing from the stock room or a crime takes place in a restricted area of your shop, you’ll have access to time logs which will tell you exactly who was in what room and when. This can help you to identify who committed the crime and exactly what happened.


Train employees

It’s important that your employees know what to do should a crime take place in your shop or if they suspect a shoplifter. Take the time to train your employees on what they should do in these circumstances; not only is this beneficial for the security of your shop, but it will ease their worry if they know what to do should something happen. 

Provide your team with a written policy that clearly states what they should do (and what they should not do) if they suspect a shoplifter. Educating your employees on shoplifting will reduce your risk of theft and ensure that your employees react appropriately to different situations.


Hire security guards

The presence of a security guard can be extremely effective at deterring crime and put potential criminals off trying to break into your premises. A professional security guard will protect your facility by mitigating crimes and risks, such as thefts or vandalism. When you hire a security guard for your business, you can rest assured that they are fully trained; not only can they detect suspicious activity, but they know how to take the correct steps to prevent issues from escalating. 

As a business owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your guests feel safe and secure while working. When you have a security guard on your premises, employees will feel safer and more protected and therefore work more productively. In addition, customers may also feel safer knowing that your building is protected and secure.


Invest in locked cabinets for high value items

If you have valuable items in your shop, it’s a wise idea to keep them protected. While you want to display your most valuable items to customers, you’ll want to ensure that these items are not easy to take or steal too. Often, criminals and shoplifters target shops that have items of high value - so it’s important to put some measures in place to ensure these items are safe. 

Investing in locked cabinets is a great way to ensure that customers can still browse your valuable products, while ensuring that they are locked and cannot be easily taken. If a customer wants to take a closer look, you can unlock the cabinet and assist them. This will reduce theft of valuable items.


Install CCTV systems

Installing CCTV cameras on your premises is one of the most effective ways to improve security in your shop. Even the sight of a CCTV camera can deter criminals from your premises as the last thing intruders want is to be recorded or caught. CCTV systems allow you to monitor activities and keep track of what is happening both inside and outside the premises, giving you peace of mind that you have a record of everything that happens. 

Consider installing CCTV cameras at entry points and inside, too. In the unfortunate event of a crime taking place at your premises, you’ll have evidence to pass to the police to help solve the problem and find the criminal.


Don’t forget cyber security

While physical security is extremely important, don’t forget about cyber security too. If you hold sensitive information digitally, it’s essential that you put all of the correct safety measures in place to ensure that this information remains safe and secure, and to reduce the risks of a cyber attack. There are lots of different measures you can put in place to combat cyber attacks, from creating strong passwords to installing the right security software and firewalls. 

As a retail business, it’s important that your point-of-sale system is as secure as possible. Many modern point-of-sale systems allow you to set user permissions to enable or restrict members from completing certain tasks. Setting the right user permissions will ensure that you can monitor exactly what your employees can see and do on the system. It’s always a good idea to pay attention to employees who have the ability to process voided sales as this can be an easy way to take stock. 

If you sell any of your products online, you could be at risk of online scams, malware and viruses. It’s important that you put suitable measures in place to protect your business at all times.


Guardian Security: commercial security systems in the South West of England

At Guardian Security, we provide business across the South West with secure commercial security systems to ensure that business owners, employees and assets remain safe at all times. We understand how important it is to ensure that your business is as secure as possible which is why we offer a range of high-quality systems at competitive prices. 

In addition, we offer a range of home security systems to protect your home and ensure that you, your family and your possessions are safe. At Guardian Security, we’re proud of our excellent customer service and comprehensive range of security solutions. 

Whether you need a CCTV system installed on your premises or you require smart access control systems for your business, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking for ways to keep your business or home and safe and secure, you needn’t look further than us. 

For more information about our products, visit our website. Alternatively, get in touch with us to discuss your requirements today.
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According to the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in 2019 52,288 cars were stolen in the UK – that’s one every nine minutes. But despite those shocking statistics, many of us still don’t take vehicle security measures at home, at work or when out and about. Your vehicle is one of the most valuable assets you own, so why spend all that money if you’re not going to take care of it? 

Every year criminals become more and more sophisticated in their methods of robbery, with hi-tech and non-invasive techniques making it easy for your car to be stolen right under your nose! Therefore, it’s essential that you’re one step ahead with high-quality solutions and good home security measures in mind. 

If you need help improving the security of your car, this blog will help. We’ve put together a detailed guide as to how you can keep your vehicle safe and reduce the chances of break-ins, damage or theft.

Home security vehicle safety tips

Your home should be the one place where you feel safe, however, this is a prime location for criminal activity. The last thing you want is for your vehicle to be stolen while you’re at home, as this could lead to repeat criminal activity that puts you in danger. Here are some of the top security measures that you can follow to protect your vehicle.

Secure the perimeter

If criminals and opportunists cannot get on to your property then they’re going to have a hard time removing your vehicle. Installing a gate or good fencing is an easy way of deterring criminals. When people are looking to commit a crime they often choose an area that’s easy to navigate as this improves their chances of not getting caught, but if you have a clear barrier in the way the likelihood of success is slim. 

Furthermore, many criminals will scout out an area before returning later so if your car is on full display they’ll already have their eyes on the target. Securing the perimeter of your home prevents the very first steps of criminal activity from happening, even motion lighting is a good way of showing people that you have measures in place.

Install access control

Most homeowners will hang their car keys on a key hook or on a table near the front door and while this is convenient for you in the morning it’s also easy for intruders to grab. To prevent this you should always keep your keys in a place that isn't easy to snatch but access control can help too. Door entry systems that require a code or card are much easier to break into than regular key locks so criminals will not be able to get into your home and grab your keys or anything else. Thieves are more likely to avoid your property if you have a high standard of security so never overlook the importance of good locks and access control.

Improve your vehicle locks

Did you know that you can reinforce the locks on your vehicle? If someone tries to pick the lock and manages to get in that could mean your car or van is gone forever. However, there are advanced car locks available that can keep your vehicle extra secure, especially for owners of vans with tools, as these are one of the most common targets for thieves. 

At Guardian Security, our Mul-T-Lock ArmaDLock has a unique locking system that comes with an ID code card and double sided key. It acts as both a visual deterrent and practical solutions for added security of the vehicle and the items inside. Resistant to picking and drills, our team can install the system promptly. Contact us today for more information.

Workplace vehicle safety tips

If you own a business and have a company car park, it’s important that you and your staff feel comfortable parking your vehicle in this area. Vehicle theft doesn’t just happen at home it can happen at work too so ensure that you don’t get too complacent and completely forget about vehicle safety. Here are some top things that you can do.

Install car barriers

A great way of preventing unwanted guests from getting close to your car park is to install car park barriers. These will keep people out when your business is closed and help you keep a better eye on the comings and goings of the area. Some barriers require a swipe card or card to be lifted, which means your car cannot be removed from the carpark by criminals. 

Compared to manual gates where you have to get out of your car to open them, electronic options are much safer as an opportunist could be waiting for you to leave your vehicle before jumping in the driver's seat! There are many solutions to suit your workplace no matter how big or small it is, so get in touch with a professional security team for a high-quality installation.

Remove valuable items

Never leave valuable items in your vehicle as they can be easily spotted and stolen. Purses, wallets, jewellery and electricals should be kept in the glove compartment or removed completely as you could end up with smashed windows or other vehicle damage. This is particularly important if you are parking on the street so your vehicle is exposed.

Other top tips

●     Don’t park in secluded areas - When out and about, don’t park your vehicle in vulnerable areas such as secluded or poorly lit roads. If criminals are less likely to be seen they are more likely to commit a crime so don’t give them the opportunity.

 

●     Lock the doors and close the windows - It sounds obvious, but you must ensure that your vehicle’s windows and doors are properly locked before walking away. Don’t be tempted to leave your windows down even if you’re just popping somewhere for a few minutes - it only takes the same amount of time for your car to be robbed!

 

●     Replace car keys - If you lose your car keys it may be a good idea to have a new set made instead of using the spare one - you never know who could have grabbed your keys waiting for a time to take your car.

Guardian Security: Providing Domestic Security Systems Across South West England

At Guardian Security , we offer a wide range of services to improve the security of your home or business including alarm installation, access control systems and enhanced vehicle locks. No matter where you live, you can’t put a price on high security that will protect your home, valuables and family. Our fully accredited team is on hand to help you find the right solution for your needs. 

If you’ve ever experienced a break in or property damage, you’ll understand how unnerving this can be and if you haven’t, make sure you have the right solutions in place so you don’t have to! With over 20 years of experience in security, our skilled consultants can arrange a detailed site survey to better understand your property and which installed are best suited. 

If you’re looking for locksmith services or security solutions, give Guardian Security a call today.
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