Back to Crime Prevention

Security Procedures

Don't support crime - Prevent it


How to Deal with Suspicious Behaviour

  • Greet every customer so they know they have been noticed
  • If you feel it is safe, approach a suspicious person and keep busy nearby
  • If you can, tell someone else what you think is happening
  • Trust your instincts – anyone can steal
  • Contact Business East Tamaki who may email a security alert to warn other businesses in the area

How to Deal with Aggressive Customers

  • Remain calm, be polite – listen sympathetically
  • Do not be defensive or confrontational
  • If they continue to abuse, ask them to leave your store
  • If they don’t leave, then CALL 111

When You Close Up

  • Lock gates, skylights, doors and windows
  • Illuminate all entry and exit points
  • Set your alarm (if fitted)
  • Deny all access to the roof - don’t stack pallets, boxes or bins outside
  • Leave your till open and empty

What to do in a Robbery

  • Don’t be a hero!
  • Remain calm. Do not make any sudden movements
  • Listen carefully to the robber
  • Obey the robber’s instructions – don’t resist
  • CALL 111 as soon as it is safe to do so
  • Observe and carefully record all you see and know, but don’t stare
  • Do not chase the robbers, but note the direction the robber takes and vehicle details including the registration plate number, if seen
  • Do not touch anything till after the Police arrive
  • Take witnesses name and phone numbers for the Police

How to Manage Cash

In Store

  • Count cash out of sight
  • Don’t discuss your cash takings in public
  • Your safe should be out of view of the public
  • Use time-lock delay safes

 Taking Cash to the Bank

  • Vary time of banking daily
  • Use adult staff (preferably more than one)
  • Don’t carry cash in a marked bank or canvas money bag
  • If walking, take the most direct route
  • Carry a mobile telephone, be alert and walk towards oncoming traffic
  • If driving, lock the doors of your vehicle and vary the route taken

How to Prevent Crime

Interior

  • Keep your front window space clear of posters etc
  • Ensure your shop is well lit
  • Position the cash register near the front shop door
  • Have a clear line of sight of all areas – use mirrors
  • Keep expensive items secure at the rear of the shop

Exterior

  • Entrances and exits should be well lit
  • Car parks should be clearly visible, well lit with no dark spots
  • Tidy gardens and low shrubs give a clear view
  • Ensure access points are closed at night e.g. gates and chains

Alarm Systems and CCTV

  • Develop an alarm plan that covers all possible entry points
  • Install a professional alarm system using a recommended supplier
  • Place alarm signs in visible places
  • Ask yourself what you want your camera to do and how it will help your situation. A well positioned high resolution camera over the exit door of your shop can be invaluable.