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Security tips for businesses

Crime is part of our everyday lives and it is therefore imperative for business owners to be vigilant and ensure they do not become part of the ever growing statistics.

Chubb South Africa is constantly working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to combat the current situation and suggests some of the following ways in order to keep one step ahead of today’s criminals.

1. Consider the basic security issues first. Keep temptation at bay by keeping valuables out of sight, especially at night.

2. Train your staff on basic security principles. For example, the need to challenge strangers on the premises, closing window blinds at night, locking cabinets etc.

3. Ensure everyone understands entry/exit procedures.

4. Ensure your premises are well lit in the evenings.

5. Ensure staff are equipped in understanding how to deal with a fire, from using the various types of extinguishers through to evacuating the premises.

6. Always use a South African Intruder Detection Services Association (SAIDSA) approved security firm.

7. Remember cheap security is no security. Do not regard security as a cost, a good security approach can reduce your insurance premiums and improve staff productivity because they feel more secure.

8. In addition, take a broad view of security. The more you integrate your approach, the more you save and the better your security will be.

9. The life cycle of an alarm system is typically around five years. Chubb recommends a review of an installed system every two to three years with a major review after a five-year period.

10. Do not rely on an old alarm to work without regular servicing.

11. Any alteration in the structure or layout of your business or any major change in the value of the risk, should also be included in the re-assessment of your security system.

12. Do not rely on an alarm sounder only. An alarm without a response is just a noise. Ensure your alarm is monitored.

13. The onus rests firmly on the client to regularly test his/her alarm and ensures that their chosen security company’s monitoring centre is receiving regular signals.

14. Make sure your security provider has updated records of your correct contact details and those of your key holders.

15. Use your burglar alarm to its full potential. Your burglar alarm should be properly managed and checked on a regular basis to ensure that it is fully operational.

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