Offices are a common target for burglars. This is because a) they often contain expensive equipment such as computers worth stealing and b) because they are often vacant at specific hours making it easier to plan a burglary.
Of course, burglars don’t just target any office. Many will spend a lot of time researching targets, usually settling on offices that are easier to infiltrate undetected and that have valuable contents worth stealing. Below are just a few signs that your office could be an attractive target for burglars – and what you could do to put off these would-be thieves.
Putting valuables on display
If burglars can easily see into your office and spot valuables, it could tempt them into targeting you. Make sure that any valuables are hidden from view.
To stop thieves peering into your office, it could be worth putting up blinds or shutters. Alternatively, you could look into installing commercial window tinting by Bravo or another company. This could allow you to still look outwards while preventing others from looking in.
Cash and sensitive information should always be hidden from view – and potentially even hidden from visitors and employees. Consider placing it in a hidden fixed safe.
Providing too much concealment
Is it easy for a burglar to break into your office undetected? Most thieves will target buildings at night when it is dark. If you have no exterior security lighting it could make it easy for a burglar to break in without being seen. Consider installing motion sensing lights outdoors so that burglars cannot hide in the shadows.
You should also be careful of high hedges or clusters of trees around your business property. These could also provide cover, making it easier for a burglar to break without being seen by neighbors or passers-by. Trimming these down could be worthwhile.
Having no security policy for visitors
In a small office, you’re likely to be able to keep track of anyone entering. However, in large offices it could become easy for visitors to come in without anyone asking questions – this could provide the opportunity for burglars to scope out the inside of your office and even potentially steal something during the day.
Make sure that any visitors schedule appointments. You could consider asking them for ID and possibly giving them a lanyard to display. Monitor them while inside the building.
Not repairing damaged doors/windows
A visibly damaged window or door could provide an easy form of entry for burglars. Make sure that any damage to windows or doors is repaired.
It could be worth upgrading doors and windows that are old and not particularly durable. Reinforced glass windows with metal frames that can be locked from the inside and reinforced doors will make your office hard to infiltrate and put off most burglars.
Neglecting basic security tech
Basic security tech such as a burglar alarm and security cameras can be an effective deterrent for burglars. Make sure that you’ve got this technology installed.
There are all-in-one business security systems that you can now buy that allow you to monitor security cameras on your phone as well as being sent text alerts if someone triggers the burglar alarm. Something like this could be worth investing in.
Basic cybersecurity is also important. If burglars do manage to steal computers, having strong passwords in place may prevent sensitive information from being accessed.
