The Dryden Police Service is out with some tips to help shuttered businesses stay safe during the COVID-19 shutdown.
Non-essential businesses in Ontario are closed to help stop the spread of the coronavirus
Dryden Police suggest the following:
-Remove all valuables from storefront to help reduce smash-and-grab thefts;
-Remove all valuables such as cash from the till and leave it open. Place cash tray in plain view on the counter to signal there’s no money in the till;
-Remove signage from front windows so police can see the inside unobstructed during patrols;
-Consider installing an alarm monitoring system. If you already have one, ensure the contact list is up-to-date;
-Clearly post signage on the door/window to indicate that the premises are monitored by an alarm company; that no money is kept on the premises and contact information for police and the business owner in case a member of the public sees damage to the property or suspicious activity;
-If the premises are closed for an extended period of time, clean all glass surfaces and create a tracking log of when cleaning was completed. This may help investigators with suspect fingerprints in the event of a break-in;
-Consider installing a surveillance camera system that can be monitored online by owner/management;
Consider using a laminate on all windows and glass doors to prevent the glass from being broken from blunt force. Although damage to glass will occur in a break-in attempt, it will greatly discourage or prevent entry;
-Install latch guards on doors to protect against prying including on secondary doors such as employee and loading entrances;
-Keep some lighting on inside for surveillance opportunities during the evening;
-Ensure all doors are properly secured and regularly check all exterior lighting is functioning; and
-Remove material around the exterior of the property that may be used to gain entry into the premises such as bricks, metal poles and construction materials