When you run a store, you will want to make sure that you, your staff, and members of the public are safe.
This is no small feat, especially in built-up urban areas, where it can seem that crime is increasing every day.
So, how can you ensure that your staff, yourself, and, more importantly, members of the public are kept safe every day? Here is a quick guide to help you!
Signs
If your place of business has a door that needs to be kept locked, all you need to do is put up a sign!
Companies like seton.co.uk can offer you an array of different signs that can promote public safety, from alerting members of the public about CCTV to doors being alarmed and, of course, emergency fire exits.
CCTV
CCTV benefits not only you but also members of the public both inside and outside of your store.
The reason is simple: the cameras allow you to see what is going on, as well as have a digital recording of any incidents, which could be helpful to the police or your insurance company.
You can even use AI technology with CCTV to assess situations for potentially illegal activity, such as loitering, which has been shown to prevent vandalism and theft.
Improved Lighting
You will be amazed at how many accidents in urban streets could have been prevented if there had been more commercial lighting!
Darkness not only causes accidents, such as falling, but is also a boon for criminal activity, which can put members of the public at risk. So, if your store has a front, an alleyway to the side, or a parking lot, make sure that all of them are well-lit. This will also help you to spot any potentially illegal activity occurring via your aforementioned CCTV system!
If you can, you should also aim to design your store layouts as well as store exterior in such a way that any light source(s) that you have travel further.
Employee Training
Suppose you have a member of staff who is located at the front of your store on the till. Would you think it wise for them to look out of the window, see a member of the public walking into a dangerous situation, and do nothing? In a word, no, it is not wise!
You need to ensure that all of your staff are trained on safety protocols, how to handle potential security threats, and how to manage emergency issues, such as fire. This can be overseen by making sure that all of your staff have attended the appropriate training.
Community Engagement
If your place of work, like a shop, is located in a row of shops like a parade, you may want to explore joining the parade committee. This will help you to raise concerns about your store, other stores, or the area in general, helping you and the other shopkeepers to keep the public safe.
You should also make an appearance at public community events, as this will help the public (and potential customers) see that you are taking action to keep them safe, and will encourage them to remain faithful to your business.
