SMEs are failing to protect themselves against crime, says Zurich.
The insurer has conducted a study of small business owners that reveals widespread security lapses in cash management. Of the 1,000 respondents, almost a quarter took cash to the bank themselves. And 43% of these SME owners did not vary their route.
Security expert Bob Turney commented: “As Christmas approaches, shops are taking more money and need to be aware that they could increasingly becoming targets for the opportunist thief.
“Criminals are becoming bolder in their activities, and they are turning to what they believe to be softer and vulnerable targets such as small shops, where they believe there is a high turnover of cash, particularly at this time of year. The core belief of most thieves is that most security is minimal, and all that it needs is for a person to walk in, snatch the money and leave. It could all be over in just a few moments!”
David Nichols, Zurich Commercial's head of package business said: “We urge all small businesses to take a few minutes to consider about what measures they can take to protect themselves against crime. Vary when you go to the bank, look at different route options; just don't become a creature of habit!"
Zurich has advised SME owners to take a number of steps to prevent crime, including:
• If you do bank your takings every day, vary the time and
route, but also, if possible, the member of staff doing so.
• Consider installing shop front grills and improving your
locks – most crime is opportunistic, so try to remove the
opportunity.
• Consider installing CCTV so potential perpetrators are
aware that they are being monitored whilst in the shop.
• Make sure that your staff are visible at all times; the
more people in the shop, the greater the deterrent for an
opportunist robber.
• Leave a notice in full view saying that the cash
registers are emptied each hour and that cash is not kept on the premises over night.
• Make sure you lock up and alarm the property when you
leave.
• Think about where you can get support in understanding
and preventing crime. For example, contact your local
authority, the police or visit www.crimereduction.co.uk to see what practical steps you can take to prevent crime.
