Help prevent robbery in your retail store

When criminals look for a potential victim, they choose the easiest targets. Some simple practices can aid in deterring robberies, such as:

• Security devices
• Clear visibility
• Effective cash-handling procedures
• Employee education and awareness programs
• Law enforcement support

Security devices

• Install video surveillance equipment at each register and throughout the store.
• Install two-way communications (intercom) between fuel pumps and clerks.
• Check the silent alarm monthly to ensure it’s in proper working order.
• Have employees keep their cell phones handy, in case they should need to call 911.

Clear visibility

• Install effective lighting inside and outside the store.
• Keep the store clean and tidy, inside and out; a positive appearance can be a sign of a secure store.
• Do not allow displays and signs to obstruct the view into the store or block employee view outside.
• Install mirrors to reveal blind spots.

Cash control

• Keep a minimum amount of cash in registers and post signs accordingly.
• Locate cash registers away from exits and not within easy reach of customers.
• Accept only small bills or credit cards during night shifts.
• Place excess cash and large bills in the store safe immediately upon receiving.
• Keep registers open for the shortest time possible.
• Keep safes locked.

Employee education and awareness

• Acknowledge each customer who enters the store with a polite greeting.
• Greet gas customers with the aid of an intercom.
• Train employees to be vigilant for potential threats.
• Ask employees to not perform exterior duties on the night shift when working alone.

Police presence

• Establish and maintain good rapport with local police.
• Schedule routine crime inspections by local police.
• Encourage police officers to stop in your store frequently.
• If faced with a suspicious situation, immediately call 911.