Robberies on the rise! How secure is your tire shop?

Unfortunately robberies are all too common, especially during the holiday season. With tire stores an attractive target for burglars, making sure your business is as secure as possible can prevent devastation caused by theft.

Tire shops targeted

The Big O tire shop in Cheyenne has been robbed four times since July this year. In the latest robbery, The Wyoming News reported a group of people were caught on camera stalking the facility and cutting locks to storage containers. They returned the next day to steal 20 tires and three batteries before doing extensive damage to the property.

In Barrie, Canada, city police reported an overnight robbery in November of 20 to 30 new tires without rims from the storage area of a tire shop. Robbing a tire shop takes planning and organization, but it also takes opportunity. There are many steps you can take to ensure your business is protected.

Contact your local police department

Most local police departments have a checklist, action plan or other documents to advise on the best way to protect your commercial property. It gives detailed information on lighting, landscaping, security and other measures you should take. Your local area may also have rules legislating what kind of lighting and security are allowed, so consult your local council to make sure you’re getting it right. A local business watch community, where stores look out for each other and communicate any issues, is well worth joining for an extra level of security.

Security and alarms

Burglar alarms are one of the best investments you can make in security. A lot of companies offer response calls to potential break-ins, as well as comprehensive CCTV. Other products include alarms for doors and fences, and motion-sensors for both indoors and outdoors. Not only should you get these installed, but consider advertising to would-be burglars that you have alarms and CCTV - prevention is the best sort of cure.

Lighting

At night it’s essential to have any interior spaces visible from outside to be lit up to discourage burglars from entering the premises. This also helps with reporting to police if a passer-by or fellow business owner sees illegal activity in your store at night. Outdoor lighting is just as important, but is usually lower in intensity than indoor. You should have exterior lighting on all sides of your building, parking lots, and storage areas and any place that seems vulnerable. Regularly check your exterior lighting and motion-sensors and replace any bulbs or failed lights as soon as possible.

Landscaping and barriers

It's possible to landscape the area surrounding your business to create an extra layer of security. You need to make sure plants are trimmed away from doors and windows. Consider using 'security plants' – those with thorns or prickers – to create a natural barrier for intruders. Place them below windows or anywhere a burglar may gain access to your building. Installing security posts works extremely well in discouraging 'smash and grab' burglaries as they prevent vehicles from hitting up against glass windows and roller doors while allowing easy access for customers.

Fences and access

Well-built gates and fences are a great first line of defence. Check with your local authority to see if you are able to erect them. Chain-link and wrought iron fences and gates are best for long-term use. Make sure they are locked properly every night and padlocks are stored in the closed — not open — position.

Burglars are adept at taking advantage of any weakness. Don’t store stackable items outside. Check all utility openings such as sewers, air vents, roof hatches and skylights and take steps to protect any opening more than 10 inches. Implement a checklist for closing your store and ensure interior doors are also locked. Make sure your staff members responsible for closing the store are thoroughly trained on how to secure your building when closing. Just one lock or door left unchecked or a trash bin in the wrong place could mean the difference between a break-in and a secure business.

Tagged: Security

Robberies are on the rise! How secure is your tire shop?