10 top tips for minimising the risk of robbery

1. Assess risks carefully

Someone who is planning to rob a business will do their research beforehand. All businesses have repetitive processes that never vary. Identify your weak points (such as fixed working hours/opening times or one person counting the money or locking up).

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2. Offer training and take preventative measures

Train your staff so they know how to respond to a robbery. Keep the amount of money on the premises to a minimum at all times. Vary your cash removal times from day to day so you’re not working to a predictable schedule. Be extra vigilant at the start and end of the working day.

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3. Install a security system

Have a decent alarm system installed. Connect it to Certas so your alarm signals can be processed around the clock and the relevant responders can be dispatched immediately. Certas monitors burglar alarm notifications.

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4. Use the special code

Your system will have a special code you can use if you’re forced to open the door. The alarm will be triggered silently and you can enter the building. Certas will immediately notify the emergency services that the door has been opened in a threat situation.

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5. Trigger the alarm manually

You can trigger the alarm manually to send a notification directly to Certas and/or the police. You also have the option of triggering the alarm discreetly via a mobile transmitter, which will notify Certas directly.

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6. Be proactive and take precautions

Don’t stick to the same old habits. Make sure you mix up your route to and from your business premises, vary the time you leave, carry money in an inconspicuous bag and avoid parking your car in the same place every day.

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7. Report anything unusual

Keep an eye out for people and vehicles you don’t recognise around your business premises. If you see the same suspicious vehicle two days in a row, make a note of the registration number and report your concerns to the police.

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8. Stay calm in a robbery situation

Remember that the people committing an armed robbery are under a lot of stress. Stay as calm as possible to avoid making the situation any worse. Don’t be tempted to play the hero – your life is worth so much more than material things.

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9. Notice little details

Watch the perpetrators in a robbery situation. Make a mental note of their size, clothing, distinguishing features and accent. If possible, see which direction they flee in and try to note down the make, model and registration number of their getaway vehicle.

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10. Take the right action after the event

Call the police on 117. Check on anyone who has been injured. Call an ambulance if required. Lock up your business premises and secure any clues or evidence left behind by the perpetrators.