WITH non-essential retailers reopening this week gardaí have urged Clare businesses to be security conscious.
According to Clare’s Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Triona Brooks investing a little time and finances into security measures can deter criminals from targeting businesses.
Measures introduced by businesses to prevent Covid-19 such as screens could obscure CCTV or alarm sensors, she explains, advising businesses to review their security systems.
She said, “As retail premises open up again after Covid-19 restrictions it is even more important to ensure that your premises is secure.
“Criminals like easy opportunities. If they have to make a lot of noise, spend a lot of time or risk being seen, the chances are they won’t bother. If they are aware staff are security conscious they will be less likely to attempt a criminal act.
“A small investment of time and money can make your business premises more secure and less likely to be targeted by criminals.”
She advises that businesses look at their perimeter security. “Check entry points including gates, fences, doors and windows to ensure they haven’t been tampered with.
“Check all locks are in good condition and you can account for all the keys. Check lighting and remove the means to commit crime such as ladders and wheelie bins, etc.”
When it comes to alarms, she says that security systems including panic buttons should be tested.
Businesses should look at their CCTV and see if it needs upgrading, that the cameras are working and are not obstructed.
Also, the security of the storage of the hard drive should also be examined.
Sergeant Brooks advises that business owners and managers ensure their staff, particularly newer members, are aware of potential scams which are ongoing, such as invoice redirection and forged notes.
A checklist for retail premises security can be printed off from the Garda website, she concludes.