Smash-and-grab store burglaries are a real possibility if your business sells and displays merchandise of moderate or significant value. Although jewelry stores are often targeted by thieves, any store with easy-to-carry objects on display behind windows without commercial window tinting is at risk. Here are a few steps you can take to minimize your risk of being targeted for theft.

5 Tips to Avoid Being Targeted for Robbery

1. Video Surveillance

Video surveillance lowers your risk of being robbed. The presence of video cameras is a significant deterrent to potential thieves. Cameras should be visible to anyone passing by, but video recordings should be stored off-site or in the cloud where footage can’t be stolen or destroyed.

2. Security Guards

If you have the capital, invest in security personnel. Most malls have security staff, but an in-store off-duty police officer is trained to take action in emergencies to safeguard lives and property.

3. Entry Buzzers or Doorbells

Anyone who has worked retail late at night can tell you how vital entry buzzers and doorbells are to store security. Knowing when someone enters the premises keeps employees alert to potential dangers.

4. Emphasis on Customer Service

A surprisingly successful tactic of many big-box retail stores is putting an emphasis on customer service. Keeping employees moving through a store at all times—continually engaging customers with eye contact and smiles—is welcomed attention from purchasers but off-putting to potential thieves. 

5. Commercial Window Tinting

Have your display windows coated with security glass coatings by commercial window tinting professionals. Security films slow down intruders trying to smash windows to grab merchandise, and they also prevent shards of glass from flying if a window is breached.

If your windows and displays are not fully protected, contact Bi-State Glass Coatings in Granite City, IL, about security glass coatings. They’ve been in the business of protecting windows and glass surfaces since 1987. They offer 15-year product warranties on coatings and extended glass and seal failure guarantees. Call them today at (618) 451-7346 to discuss your needs, or visit their website for more information about commercial window tinting.