subject: Convenience Store Robbery Prevention Tips [print this page] Over the past 30 years, convenience stores have evolved from simple mom and pop stores open from 9 to 5, to busy stores that stay open 24/7. And unlike the old days, where convenience stores handled just a few hundred dollars a day, today's convenience stores commonly handle several thousands of dollars daily. Between gas, lottery tickets, phone cards, cigarettes, and even cell phones sold in today's convenience stores, this equates to a convenient source of quick cash for thieves.
Studies show that convenience store robbers select their targets ahead of time. The two key factors used in their decision process include: (1) how much cash they believe the store has on hand, and (2) how easy or difficult it will be to pull off the crime without getting caught. In other words, a thief chooses his targets through a benefits vs. risks system.
As a convenience store owner, assessing your store from a robber's benefits vs. risks perspective is critical to a good security plan. That's because looking at your store through a criminal's eyes will help you to see what security measures need to be implemented. Not only will this help reduce the risk of having your convenience store robbed, it just might save your life or the life of an employee or customer.
The following are some effective security measures you can take to help make your convenience store less of a target for robbery:
Limit how much cash you keep on hand throughout the day and do not accept bills larger than $20.00.
Prominently display signs around the store that state what security measures are in place. This should include a sign that states the limited funds you have available at any given time. The more signs the better, as this will help deter would-be robbers.
Install video surveillance cameras, silent alarms, and/or closed-circuit TV systems within the store and prominently display signage.
In hiring employees, perform a thorough background check and follow up on all references.
Establish a written robbery prevention policy and train all employees.
Convert a small storage room or closet into a mini "safe room" with phone access. In the event of a robbery, this can give employees a safe place to hide while they wait for police to arrive. Safe rooms typically contain bullet-resistant panels, reinforced steel doors, telephones, first-aid kits, etc.
To reduce the risk of an employee robbing you of money or goods, inform each new hire of the various security measures you have in place, such as surveillance cameras, etc.
Ensure there is a good line of sight between the cash register/counter and all store entry doors. The cash register and store employees should be located behind bullet-resistant glass.
Ensure your store has adequate interior and exterior lighting.
Do not allow people to loiter in or around your store.
Consider hiring security guards that either drop in throughout the day or patrol the premises throughout each shift.
By putting the above security measures in place, would-be criminals will view robbing your convenience store as a much higher risk than a benefit. In doing so, you will reduce the risk of your store being robbed, as well as provide a safer environment for you, your employees, and your customers.
