SMASH & GRAB
" BUSINESSES SHOULD TAKE PREVENTIVE MEASURES TO PROTECT THEMSELVES FROM LOSS AND HARM . "
have undisguised and disguised security cameras . This can record criminal activity . Unfortunately , this might not really serve as a deterrent as most of the criminals usually wear masks and hoodies when committing these crimes . However , it can prove helpful in learning the parts of the store that are more susceptible to flash mob attacks .
• Effective Security Systems : Retail store owners should equip their businesses with security systems that make it hard for perpetrators to flee the scene without obvious hindrances such as burglary-proof glass , metallic roll-down gates , and a door buzzer entry system . These installations enable the staff to have some level of control when it comes to gaining access into the premises and can obviously slow criminals down , deterring flash mobs . It is also logical for stores in high-risk areas to ensure that the exterior glass on their storefront is laminated or insulated glass , which will counter attempts of blunt force entry .
• Hiring Security Personnel : Business owners should consider hiring armed off-duty police officers as security personnel , especially in areas known for having high crime rates . They should be well-trained and on high alert , particularly at nighttime .
• Employee Training : Retail stores , especially high-end establishments , should always have several staff working on the sales floor at all times . Once customers walk into the store , they should be ushered in and offered assistance throughout their perusal through the store . Fake customers with ill intentions will hopefully get flustered by the attention and exit the store . Employees should also receive training on what to do and how to act if they suspect that a mob attack is about to happen . This may include , but is not limited to , knowing how to implement lockdown procedures , not chasing after perpetrators or intervening , and always staying alert .
• Proper Segmentation : High-value items and merchandise should not be displayed at only a single location of the store — this makes it a clear and easy target . Instead , they should be spread out across the store and even displayed in sections of the store that are difficult to access . This will make their location less flashy and attractive which can mislead criminals .
• Clear Obstructions : Doors and windows should be kept free from all forms of obstruction . This way , suspicious-looking persons can be easily spotted from outside . The back doors should also be shut whenever the store is open for business .
• Tactical Collaboration : Retail store owners should build strong and strategic relationships with local law enforcement agencies and other businesses in the same neighborhood . They should ensure that they follow any guidance these local authorities provide and monitor their social media pages to keep track of potential robberies and other suspicious activity .
• Evidence Gathering : Although it might seem like ORCs are unpredictable and decentralized , they are sometimes part of a larger crime ring . The sure-fire way to ensure that crimes like these are curtailed is by arresting and convicting offenders .
Law enforcement agents are realizing the severity of these crimes and that retail store owners need to ensure they do their best to gather sufficient evidence and relay it in a way that is legally admissible . The evidence gathered will assist prosecutors in going after the crime ring leaders .
• Insurance Coverage : It is always advisable for retail stores to purchase adequate protection against losses with suitable insurance coverage . Commercial property insurance usually reimburses retail businesses that have suffered from theft or ORC . A professional insurance agency should be consulted for additional information on insurance coverage plans related to ORC . +
BY : JOEY BARROSO RISK CONSULTING MANAGER ATLAS INSURANCE AGENCY
Joey Barroso brings over 25 years of industry experiences to his clients . As Risk Consulting Manager , he manages the day-to-day operation of the Risk Consulting unit , coordinating client consulting services and developing new service opportunities . He holds several OSHA Hazard Recognition Certifications , a Safety and Health Specialist Certification , a Property & Casualty license , an Associate in Insurance ( AINS ).
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