Ways to Prevent Theft In Your Store

Businesses are more likely to sustain a burglary or theft loss than residential locations. Burglary and theft can result in damage to your building as well as loss of product, resulting in large dollar losses. Protecting your business from these perils is important.

While money may seem like the most sought item, our research indicates burglary and theft are more likely to involve retail items such as liquor and tobacco products. Further, our research shows burglars most commonly gain entry through glass doors or windows.

You may use surveillance video and security alarm systems to protect your business. Both are great resources to have and utilize. Unfortunately, they may not always deter theft. While security gates or bars are an option, they may not be feasible, or even permitted. In fact, these loss prevention methods bring their own set of safety concerns and decrease curb appeal.

So, what can be done to potentially prevent burglars from gaining access to your business through doors and windows? You may be surprised to learn there are solutions that are both easy and cost effective.

Glass safety film can be added to your existing glass to provide additional protection. While it may not prevent breakage entirely, it increases the amount of effort and time needed to gain access. Increasing the time to enter your building gives police more time to respond, may draw more local attention by the burglar, and could result in the burglar ultimately abandoning the attempt. Safety film is an economic option for existing glass and can be applied to both windows and doors.

An area of vulnerability for doors is where the door lock inserts into the door jamb. The strike plate helps keep the door locked but does not prevent intrusion when force is applied. The simple addition of a strike plate cover to your existing door can prevent would-be burglars from gaining access to your building. The strike plate cover can be easily installed on exterior doors and can be purchased for approximately $30. Ensure all exterior doors, including side and rear doors, are not overlooked when taking steps to secure your building.

Even the most prepared businesses may experience a burglary or attempted burglary. If you do experience such an unfortunate event, Acuity is here for you.

Written by Kelsey Ball, Acuity Senior Field Claims Representative