With the current concerns around the COVID-19 virus spreading through much of the world, many businesses are closing operations or reducing staff in the office to allow employees to be away for an extended period of time. Unfortunately, this can also mean that would-be thieves may take advantage of this to break into empty buildings to commit theft.
5 Tips To Prepare Your Business Security for a COVID-19 Shutdown
To keep your building safe and secure during a shutdown, follow these tips and best practices.
1. Check & Test Your Security System and Devices
If your facility will be closed for an indefinite amount of time, or will have reduced hours of operation, it’s important that you test your security system, devices, and fire alarm to ensure they are working and reporting properly. It would be ideal to complete this task before a shutdown to allow for time to make adjustments or repairs.
2. Update Your Emergency Notification List
Depending on staff availability or possible illness, changes to your emergency call list may occur. Because of this, it’s important to notify your security and/or fire monitoring provider of any special hours, and ensure that they have an updated call list in the event that any alarms go off in your absence.
3. Make Sure Your Facility is Properly Locked and Armed
Ensuring that your building’s doors are locked may seem like an obvious step, but it’s absolutely critical when your building will be empty for an extended period of time. We recommend checking and securing all exterior doors and windows prior to closing the building.
If your building has an access control system, please take time to review your system’s arming and disarming schedules. These schedules should be turned off or changed so that the building is not left vulnerable by accident.
4. Be Aware of What Can Be Seen Through the Windows of Your Business
If your business will be closed for the foreseeable future, we encourage you to be aware of what can be seen in the building from the exterior. Ensure that highly valued merchandise or equipment are out of sight to deter thieves from doing a quick smash and grab.
5. Unplug All Unnecessary Devices
Before your staff vacate their offices, ask them to look over their workspaces and unplug electronics that are not required while the building is closed. This small task can protect your building in the event of a power outage or surge, ensuring you don’t return to damaged or destroyed
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Incorporate these safety tips during your shutdown period so that you can leave your business with peace of mind knowing that it’s protected.
For 20 years, Bulldog Fire and Security has been an expert in Intrusion Alarm System installation, having installed a variety of systems in numerous applications across Southwestern, Ontario.
To learn more about Intrusion Alarm Systems and the role they can play in your building’s security, call us at 1 866 670 1590, email info@bulldogsecurity.ca, or fill out the contact form below.