How to Prevent Commercial Burglary

It has been said that 90% of burglary prevention is physical security.  If your complex is locked up and unauthorized entry is made difficult, time consuming, noisy and visible, chances of a successful burglary are low.  That means a would-be burglar will pass up your property for one that is more vulnerable.

When attempting to improve the security of your property, the Leesburg Police Department in North Central Florida recommends that you t think like a criminal and go over your entire complex in fine detail, looking for any means of entrance or criminal opportunity.  Here’s what to do -

• Locks on all outside entrances and inside security doors should be double cylinder deadbolts with moveable collars.  The deadbolt should have at least one inch throw containing a hardened steel insert and protected by a latch guard.
• Padlocks should be of hardened steel, mounted on bolted hasps and always locked to prevent exchange.  Serial numbers should be filed off to prevent new keys from being made.
• Doors (all outside or security doors) should be of solid construction, metal lined and secured with heavy metal crossbars.  All exposed hinges should be pinned to prevent removal.
• Windows should have secure locks.  Burglar-resistant glass treatments are also recommended. An example would be the installation of polyester security film.  However, this must be used in conjunction with the alarm’s glass break sensor.
• Lights must provide optimum visibility, both inside and out, with those outside having vandal-proof covers over the lights and power source.  Entire perimeter must be well lit, especially the area around doors and other possible entry points.
• An alarm system is a must and should be used to protect all vulnerable areas of the property.  You should work with a central monitoring station as well.  Check the alarm system on a daily basis and advertise its presence to deter break-ins.
• Cash Register should be kept in plain view from outside the building so it can be easily monitored and should be left open when empty and not in use.
• Safe should be fire proof, burglar resistant, anchored securely and in plain view. Leave it open when it is empty, and use it to lock up valuables when business is closed. Change the combination whenever someone with access to it leaves your employment.
• Building Exterior should be checked including the roof, cellar and walls.  Secure all openings.
• Maintain Good Visibility by not allowing landscaping, boxes, trash bins, vehicles or equipment near building where they might provide concealment or access to the roof.
• Perimeter Fences need to be adequate enough to keep intruders out, and at the same time allow good visibility of your business by neighbors and police.
• Key Control should be done in a responsible manner.  A master key system where one key opens all locks may be convenient, but it may not be the best for security.  Code all keys, keep them locked up when not in use, and do not allow employees to leave them lying around or make duplicates.  Change locks whenever you suspect key security has been jeopardized.