Retail units

Businesses are more at risk of crime then that of private households.  Reducing the risk of crime will help protect your profits and make sure that the people who work with you are safe.

Everyone needs to play a part in tackling crime effectively the police and other public services, businesses and residents.  Not all advice will be right for you, but following some of it might make all the difference.

• make sure that all fences, walls and gates are well maintained and secure
• don't help intruders get into your property - move bins and materials away from the perimeter;
• think about installing street furniture like plants and metal posts to stop vehicles breaking in;
• fix grilles and air vents securely;
• use anti-climb paints, or anti-scale barriers on roofs;
• rear doors should be of solid core construction, no less than 44mm thick if wood, and fitted with good-quality locks;
• front door locks should be at least BS 3621 standard;
• site letter boxes carefully;
• rear windows should ideally have laminated glass;
• windows should only open to 150mm;
• use security grilles or films on display windows;
• light the rear of buildings well;
• a good-quality alarm system can complement security precautions.

Store design and layout

• Make it easy to see and be seen.  Keep shelves low enough for staff to see what shoppers are doing.  Use mirrors to reduce blind spots.  Make it easy to see into your shop from the street.
• Provide staff and with safe spaces such as counters.  If possible, find a safe place for your staff to go in an emergency.
• Protect high-value goods.  Display them away from exits and where you can see them.  Where appropriate, display dummy goods, remove essential parts or use display cabinets, alarm or product tags.
• Introduce measures to prevent crimes when you are planning major refurbishments or a move.  Ask your police force’s architectural liaison officer or crime prevention design adviser for advice.
• Carefully consider the position of your tills.
• Get specialist advice before installing ATMs.