Crime is an unfortunate and unavoidable part of life, but when it occurs in the commercial sector it can have significant and wide-ranging consequences. Businesses are particularly prone to crimes like burglary, shoplifting, fraud and vandalism. These crimes can exact a large financial toll, endanger employees and even threaten the viability of a business as a whole.
Crime can impact production, scare off investors and tarnish the reputation of a business, causing ripple effects that spread far beyond the initial act. In fact, up to 30 percent of all business failures may be related to crime. This makes it all the more important to understand the crimes a business may face and employ an effective strategy for identifying and preventing criminal acts before they happen.
Burglary and Shoplifting
Perhaps the biggest criminal threat to a business is theft, and the commercial sector loses tens of billions of dollars every year as a result. Burglaries and shoplifting are particularly common, with more than 30 percent of all businesses reporting at least one instance of theft and many reporting multiple cases. Employee theft is especially harmful because it may not be noticed immediately, and it can have a strongly negative impact on the public perception of a business.
Vandalism
Though it may seem trivial in comparison to theft or fraud, vandalism poses a significant problem for businesses. More than half of all businesses will experience at least one instance of vandalism, with an average financial loss of more than $3,000 per incident. Vandalism often results in the destruction of property and, in some cases, can lead to a substantial loss of inventory or reduced production capacity in addition to the immediate financial toll.
Crime Prevention
The good news is that active crime prevention measures have proven to be effective if employed properly. Most crimes are born of opportunity, and removing the opportunity removes much of the threat. The overriding principle for an effective crime prevention plan is to make it as physically difficult as possible to commit a crime. Here are several simple steps that can significantly reduce the threat of criminal activity.
Use Closed-Circuit Television
The average person may take little note of the security cameras that adorn many businesses and retail establishments, but criminals certainly will. Few measures are more effective at discouraging crime than a closed-circuit television system and well-placed cameras. Not only do the cameras send a strong message to would-be criminals, but a CCTV feed can be an invaluable resource for on-site security personnel or for police investigators.
Secure Entrances
Doors and windows should be locked at all times outside of regular business hours. Any other potential entrances, such as air ducts, skylights and other openings should be well-secured and inspected regularly. A criminal is much less likely to commit a crime when they struggle to gain entry.
Light the Darkness
It may seem simple, but darkness is one of a criminal’s greatest assets. By removing shadows and hiding places, effective security lighting around all potential entrances and exits can significantly reduce the chances that a criminal will attempt entry. For businesses that operate at night, good lighting also projects an air of safety to customers.
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