subject: Role of the Police in Business Security [print this page] Role of the Police in Business Security Role of the Police in Business Security
There are plenty of security system options available for every type of business premises taking into consideration the company's size and budget. These systems can be tailored to the needs of individual business premises. Of course one additional benefit of increased security is a reduction in the cost of insurance.
It is increasingly important that businesses are self-reliant when it comes to security. On March 8th it emerged that government cut backs will have a significant and negative effect on the UK police force. Police Federation chairman Paul McKeever, said the cuts are likely to affect the profession for years to come.
Although the reduction in the number of officers on the beat is an obvious concern to us all, it is not the whole story. Arguably society's perception of the police presence is equally influential on crime figures. In the light of the police force cut backs, the opportunist will be bolder in deciding what they can get away with. This situation coupled with the economic downturn sees crime rates set to increase.
With the current climate looking so grim, it is a wise for businesses to review their security needs. Many companies do not consider the negative impact of a break-in until it's too late. The reality is that business crime in the UK costs about 12.6bn a year.
The good news is that businesses have a significant range of security options available. Here are some of the most effective:-
Intruder or burglar alarms are what most people think of first when considering security systems. As well as acting as a deterrent, they are a warning that an intrusion is taking place. Monitored alarm systems, as opposed to simply audible alarms are the best type of intruder alarm for commercial premises. The monitoring centre is alerted when the alarm system is activated and the police are contacted on the company's behalf.
Of course the much discussed CCTV camera is another effective option in crime prevention, and enables the recording of criminal activities for evidence. Detector Activated Remotely Monitored cameras are an increasingly popular alternative to continuous live monitoring. This type of system is most suited to large or exposed sites.
If a business is looking to further invest in security and has system in place, a complete refit may not be necessary. It is worth considering the option of adding to an existing security system. Not all burglars are deterred when they hear an intruder alarm the addition of a good quality security smoke screen with a strobe light would render them unable to actually see the items they entered the premises for. Another effective option is the addition of a sound barrier (a type of ear-piercing alarm system) which produces an unbearable noise, forcing the intruder to leave the area.
Crime prevention schemes have been set up in several regions in the UK, involving both businesses and the police force. Secured by Design is the UK Police flagship initiative supporting the principles of crime prevention at the design, layout and construction stages of homes and commercial premises. They promote the use of security standards for a wide range of applications and products.
