Fairfax County police give small business owners tips on how to keep their stores safe

Anna Chen
·1 min read

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) — As the new year begins, Fairfax County police are reminding everyone to stay safe, especially small business owners.

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The Fairfax County Police Department released some tips for business owners on how to protect their premises.

  • Invest in surveillance cameras in visible areas inside and outside your shop to act as a deterrent.

  • Have well-lit lights around the shop, especially during non-business hours to discourage criminal activity.

  • Have alarm systems in place that alert law enforcement response in the case of a break-in. Put up signs communicating that an alarm system is in use.

  • Use strong locks on doors and consider shatter-proof glass.

  • Create a network with neighboring business owners and share information when needed.

  • Have a secure cash-handling protocol to minimize theft. Consider using drop safes or cash management systems, and train employees on safe cash handling as well.

  • Have and regularly review emergency procedures such as evacuation plans and where emergency exits are.

  • Do regular inventory audits to keep track of your merchandise. Have security measures in place to deter theft and monitor inventory flow.

  • Train employees to be vigilant and report suspicious activity.

For more information, click here.

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