Crime is a growing problem across many parts of the state, particularly near businesses and busy retail centers. On an almost daily basis there are news reports of crime occurring at shopping malls, restaurants, banks, and grocery stores, with crimes ranging from robbery, assault, or car burglaries. With companies working around the clock to increase their revenue and deal with labor shortages, the last thing they need is to suffer losses or liability issues because of crime on their commercial property. Today's Aegis blog post looks at how businesses can improve security in their business parks and retail centers to protect customers, employees, and the business itself.

Installing Video Monitoring Systems

One of the greatest tools businesses can utilize to improve security and minimize crime are digital video monitoring systems installed in and around their commercial property. The possibility of being recorded on videos is a strong deterrent for many criminals to avoid the property altogether, and for those still intent on committing a crime, video cameras can capture their crime, faces, clothing, identifying marks or tattoos, getaway vehicles, and other important details to aid law enforcement in their arrest and prosecution.

Companies interested in video monitoring systems should also make sure their digital video recordings are uploaded to cloud-based systems that can be accessed remotely so owners can monitor their property at any time and from any location. In addition, businesses can make sure doors, windows, and secure areas have loud sirens and bright lights to notify law enforcement and nearby businesses of a security breach. Through these steps, companies can have peace of mind that their property is protected, and that the people who work on site or are customers will be safer.

Utilizing Security Guards or Police Patrols

Another option businesses can consider is hiring security patrols to monitor their property, whether through private security companies or off-duty police officers who provide can security by the hour. This added layer of protection can be vital for companies with a higher risk of robberies, assaults, or carjackings, such as bank customers or people leaving high-end retailers. Customers can request escorts to and from their vehicles for extra protection, and security detail can note suspicious activity that might not be picked up on a video camera. Customers can be reassured that they will be safer and protected when shopping at certain upscale retailers or leaving with cash withdrawals from their local bank.

Community Watchdog Participation

Finally, businesses can go a long way in strengthening their business safety and security by harnessing the power of community. Companies that want to improve safety can create or participate in area watchdog groups to help protect the surrounding area. Businesses can work together to keep an eye on each other's commercial property and report any unusual or suspicious activity, as well as promoting each other's businesses. When companies work together like this, they strengthen the entire business community by protecting business property and commercial property values.

These proactive steps can go a long way in protecting businesses from devastating losses, property damage, Workers Compensation claims, or liability claims from customers hurt or robbed on a commercial property. Aegis Insurance & Financial Services is committed to helping companies across all industries get the financial protection they need if disaster strikes, whether it's a retail theft, restaurant burglary, or customer injury or assault. Contact Aegis today at 713-850-7622 for more information, or fill out our contact form to request a free quote!