Advice for owners of closed businesses in Watford

Herfordshire Constabulary have issued advice for the owners of businesses in Watford which are closed due to the Covid-19 lockdown.

This comes after pubs and retail businesses in other parts of the country have been targeted by thieves and opportunists.

Hertfordshire Constabulary is offering crime prevention advice to businesses that have ceased operating, leaving their premises empty. They have urged business owners to review their security, over fears that their premises may be targeted whilst empty.

At present there has been no increase in empty premises in the are being targeted, but as incidents have been seen elsewhere, Officers have warned that it makes practical sense to ensure any property or valuable equipment or stock remains secure.

Inspector Nicola Dean from Hertfordshire constabulary’s Crime Reduction Unit said:

“During this uncertain time, when lots of shops, warehouses and other business premises are unoccupied, it can leave them vulnerable to criminal activity.

“Small businesses that have less security are particularly at risk as losing valuable stock or equipment or damage to premises could seriously impact on their business.”

To help keep your business secure Hertfordshire Constabulary advises:

Test your alarm, ensure it is monitored and fully operational
Identify and rectify any vulnerable areas. Ensure security gates, bollards and fire exit doors have been secured.
Ensure service doors are closed and locked when not in use.
Ensure contact details for staff and key holders are up to date.
Consider moving high value items into secured stockrooms and out of view.
Ensure keys to the premises or other venues are not left inside and are instead with dedicated key holders.
Consider timer switches or ensure sufficient lighting is left on at the premises/surrounding area.
Ensure there are no combustible materials left in the proximity of the building – consider the risk of arson.
Review your CCTV to confirm it is operational, provides good quality images and is positioned to cover as much of the store’s public and private areas. Consider a mobile phone app that allows connectivity and a vocal capacity to engage with any intruder.
Ensure that no cash is retained on the premises overnight (leave signage to this effect) or store in a security accredited safe bolted to the floor.

Contact Gi Watford
Email us: news@gi-media.co.uk