As the lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic continues, and non-essential businesses are forced to close, there has been a rise in opportunist thieves taking advantage of unmanned local premises.
Police in Staffordshire have reported an increase in the number of business break-ins, and are now reminding businesses to ensure they have taken the necessary steps to prevent becoming victims of crime during the pandemic, according to Tamworth Informed.
Chief Inspector Giles Parsons, Staffordshire Police’s business crime lead, said: “We will maintain a visible presence and are committed to preventing any crime. However, we need your help to ensure that buildings are as secure as they can be.
“As a rule, it’s important that you focus on the risks to your premises and regularly review your security. Remember, the restrictions on your movement will be prohibitive so only travel when absolutely necessary – considering the health of yourself and others when doing so.”
Here’s a checklist to help provide extra security.
- Perform a detailed audit of all the security systems in place in all properties and land you for which you are responsible, whether they’re occupied or not.
- Invest in a recognised security gate and locking mechanism, which is securely fixed to the ground and in alignment with the boundary fence. Ensure your boundary is security rated and high enough to deter someone from climbing over it. It’s recommended for a minimum height of 2.1 metres.
- A vehicle height restrictor can prevent larger vehicles from entering your site, which can also be secured with heavy-duty concrete blocks, or security rated bollards.
- Make sure your CCTV is an accredited system and correctly installed and positioned so that it covers your premises and any vulnerable areas.
- Turn off the utility supply to the premises. If they’re not needed then cut the electricity and water supply to the site. Be aware of any impact this could have on CCTV, alarms or fire regulations.
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