December 16, 2011
BRATTLEBORO: Business owners from up and down Flat Street came before the Selectboard Tuesday night to ask for help in addressing a rash of burglaries that has plagued the area over the past few months.
The small group of business owners told the board they have been frustrated with the lack of police presence on Flat Street, which they say has contributed to the sharp increase in criminal activity over the past few months.
A few extra precautions can keep your business from being victimized by burglary.
- Make sure all outside entrances and inside security doors have deadbolt locks. If you use padlocks, they should be made of steel and kept locked at all times. Remember to remove serial numbers from your locks, to prevent unauthorized keys from being made.
- All outside or security doors should be metal-lined and secured with metal security crossbars. Pin all exposed hinges to prevent removal.
- Windows should have secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. Consider installing metal grates on all your windows except display windows.
- Remove all expensive items from window displays at night and make sure you can see easily into your business after closing.
- Light the inside and outside of your business, especially around doors, windows, skylights, or other entry points. Consider installing covers over exterior lights and power sources to deter tampering.
- Check the parking lot for good lighting and unobstructed views.
- Keep your cash register in plain view from the outside of your business, so it can be monitored by police during the day or at night. Leave it open and empty after closing.
- Be sure your safe is fireproof and securely anchored. It should be kept in plain view. Leave it open when it’s empty; use it to lock up valuables when you close. Remember to change the combination when an employee who has had access to it leaves your business.
- Before you invest in an alarm system, check with several companies and decide what level of security fits your needs. Contact your local law enforcement agency to recommend established companies. Learn how to use your system properly. Check the system daily, and run a test when closing.
Source: Los Angeles Police Department
With all of the madness going on in the world today, you never know what’s going to happen. Don’t take the risk of leaving your family in a state of financial distress, if anything was to ever happen to you. Contact Campbell & Boyd Insurance for Commercial Insurance strategies.
CAMPBELL & BOYD
20 Technology Dr, Ste 4
PO Box 1260
Brattleboro, VT 05302
tel: 802-257-9500
email: ddboyd@campbell-boyd.com
Jennifer has been into Campbell & Boyd Insurance Services since September of 2003. She joined as a licensed personal Lines Agent for both Vermont and New Hampshire clients. She recently has been selected to assume the offices Administrative Duties, a vital position of coordination and management.
