As a jeweler, you understand the importance of protecting your store and its valuable inventory. Unfortunately, smash-and-grab robberies can happen quickly and unexpectedly, leaving you feeling vulnerable and at risk of losing your livelihood. These types of crimes can be devastating, but with the right preventative measures in place, you can reduce the risk of a robbery and protect your business.
In this article, we’ll share seven practical tips to help you prevent smash-and-grab robberies and keep your jewelry store secure.
Tip #1: Secure Your Windows and Doors
Securing your windows and doors is crucial when it comes to protecting your property against smash-and-grab robbers. By taking proactive measures to fortify these entry points, you can significantly enhance the overall security of your premises. One effective step to consider is the installation of anti-intrusion window film and riot glass, which make it severely more difficult for criminals to break in.
In addition to reinforcing your windows, it is equally important to focus on the security of your doors. Utilizing secure locks that are resistant to picking or tampering is a crucial element of your defense strategy. Consider investing in high-quality deadbolt locks or smart locks that provide advanced security features. Furthermore, reinforcing your doors with metal frames can significantly increase their strength and resistance to forced entry. The metal frames provide a sturdy foundation and make it much more challenging for criminals to kick or break down the door.
Tip #2: Install a Security System
To further enhance the security of your jewelry store, investing in a comprehensive security system is a wise decision. A security system can provide an invaluable added layer of protection and serve as a deterrent to potential smash-and-grab robbers. There are several components to consider when setting up a robust security system.
Incorporating motion detectors and surveillance cameras into your security system can help monitor activities, deter criminal behavior, and provide valuable evidence in case of an incident. Opt for high-quality cameras that offer clear resolution and a wide field of view and consider features such as night vision capabilities to ensure continuous surveillance even in low-light conditions. It’s essential to position motion detectors and cameras in a way that covers all vulnerable areas, including entrances, display cases, and cash registers.
Using a door buzzer system or mantrap to deter smash-and grab robberies is another way to defend your store against smash and grab robberies. Make sure your security system is professionally installed and monitored, and don’t forget to display a sign indicating your premises are protected.
Tip #3: Optimize Showcases and Displays
While you want your jewelry to be visible to potential customers, it’s important to keep it secure from potential robbers. One way to do this is to ensure your showcases are strong and durable by installing resilient glass, which can greatly reduce the amount of physical damage during a jewelry store robbery. In addition to robust showcases, consider utilizing locked display cases or safes for extremely high-value items. By securing these items within locked enclosures, you can add an extra layer of protection to your inventory.
Tip #4: Implement Cash Handling Procedures
Cash handling procedures are essential to prevent smash-and-grab robberies. Train your staff to limit the amount of cash kept in the register and to regularly deposit money in a safe. You could also consider using a drop safe, which allows staff to deposit cash into a secure box without access to the main safe. As always, encourage your team to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior when dealing with customer payments. For free, online safety training for you and your employees, take advantage of Jewelers Mutual’s Safety and Security Academy.
Tip #5: Limit Access to Backrooms
The backroom of your jewelry store is an extremely important area where you keep your inventory and other sensitive information. It’s best to limit access to these areas to prevent smash-and-grab robbers from entering. Implementing a clear policy regarding who can enter the backroom and under what circumstances helps ensure that only trusted individuals with a legitimate need for access are granted permission. You can also choose to install a security system or door with a locking mechanism to limit backroom access to authorized personnel only.
It’s important to also conduct periodic audits to ensure that only authorized personnel have access, and promptly revoke access privileges for any former employees or individuals whose access is no longer necessary. Maintaining a strict control system helps minimize the risk of internal threats and unauthorized entry.
Tip #6: Increase Lighting In and Around Your Store
Bright lights make it difficult for burglars to hide, so increasing the lighting inside and outside of your jewelry store can deter potential smash and grabs from occurring. Install motion-activated lighting in front of your store, in alleys, or in other areas with less visibility. Inside your store, make sure all areas are well-lit so that staff can easily spot any suspicious behavior.
Tip #7: Develop an Emergency Plan
Despite taking all the necessary precautions, smash-and-grab robberies can still happen. It’s important to have an emergency plan in place so that your staff knows how to respond in case of a robbery. Train your staff to stay calm, follow procedures and avoid confrontations with robbers. Have a plan to contact the police and provide them with information about the incident. Need help getting started on your emergency plan? We’ve got you covered here.
Smash-and-grab robberies can be devastating for jewelers, but by taking preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of a robbery and protect your business. We hope these seven practical tips have empowered you to take action to keep your business secure as jewelry crime is on the rise.
Want to learn more ways to keep your business secure? Read our comprehensive Jeweler Security Guide for additional resources and tips.
