In any kind of workplace, some form of alarm system should be used to reduce the chance of a break-in and to increase the chance of apprehension.

Two types of alarm systems, local and monitored, are available. A local alarm rings a siren or bell at the business. It is used to frighten suspects and to alert someone in the area to call the police. A monitored system sends an electronic signal to a monitoring station. Security personnel then call the correct police or sheriff’s department to respond to the call.

In addition to an alarm system, some simple steps can add extra elements of security to your establishment.

Lighting

• A well-lit area is a very effective deterrent. People intent on committing a crime do not want to be seen.
• Exterior lights in parking lots, entrances, walkways, stairways and lobbies should be bright enough to read a newspaper.
• Lights should be protected by wire cages or other means to prevent breakage.
• All lights should have a back-up power supply.

Mirrors

• Convex, concave and dome mirrors should be installed inside and outside facilities, particularly in long corridors to allow employees to monitor specific areas.
• Mirrors can be used to conceal closed-circuit television cameras.

Locks

• Use hardened steel deadbolts that resist breakage, bending, and sawing.
• The throw of the deadbolt should be at least one and one-half inches over the doorframe.
• Modern technology has devised many types of electronic locks that use card, punch code, magnetic strip, fingerprint or voice recognition. These are easily programmable from a central location. They can be set for specific hours and record what lock was opened when and by whom.

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