(how to play hard to get) Crime takes a big bite out of small businesses. How secure are you from burglary and robbery?During 1999 in Charlotte-Mecklenburg, there were 3,577 commercial burglaries and about 590 robberies. The loss from many of these crimes could have been reduced or even prevented altogether if business owners had taken some additional precautions.The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department can help make your business less vulnerable to theft. Call your police district and ask for a free security survey. In the meanwhile, here are some suggestions to follow on your own. Putting burglars and robbers out of business takes teamwork: the police and you!Burglary PreventionA Full-Time BusinessMerchants and other businessmen like you annually spend billions of dollars on crime prevention devices and on insurance. Unless you constantly maintain a complete program of security, however, you don't get the full return on these investments. For example, sophisticated door locks are useless if a ladder left against the building provides a burglar with easy access to a second-story windows or roof.Your business security inventory should include these checkpoints:Make sure all locks on windows and doors are sturdy and adequate to do the job. If in doubt, consult a qualified locksmith, carpenter, or hardware dealer.Stay alert while you and your employees are opening and locking up. Watch for anyone suspicious loitering nearby.Keep a record of equipment and merchandise serial numbersCarefully screen all employees before hiring them. Check references.Keep only a minimum amount of money on hand.If you have an alarm system, check it out regularly to see whether it's in proper working order.Keep close tabs on keys. A poor key control system leaves you vulnerable from both inside and outside your business. Re-key locks when in doubt.Change the combination of your safe periodicallyPark company vehicles away from the building at night where t...
