Business Crime Prevention
5. Broader Safety Measures
Safeguarding Business Property During Public Events
Public events such as festivals, protests, parades, or sporting matches can attract large crowds and unpredictable behaviour. Businesses near event zones must prepare for increased risks including theft, vandalism, trespassing, and disruption.
Risk Assessments & Police Liaison
Pre-Event Planning: Conduct site-specific risk assessments considering crowd size, event type, and proximity to your premises.
Police Coordination: Share your concerns and plans with local police. Request increased patrols or presence if needed.
Emergency Protocols: Review and rehearse evacuation, lockdown, and invacuation procedures with staff.
Insurance Review: Ensure your policy covers event-related incidents such as civil unrest or property damage.
Staff Presence & Crowd Monitoring
Visible Management: Assign senior staff to act as points of contact for law enforcement and security teams.
Briefing Sessions: Educate employees on situational awareness, emergency contacts, and suspicious behaviour indicators.
Uniform Adjustments: Consider casual dress to avoid staff being targeted due to company branding.
Communication Tools: Equip staff with radios or mobile apps for real-time updates and alerts.
Physical Security Measures
Temporary Barriers: Use crowd control fencing, bollards, or planters to restrict access and prevent ram-raids.
Secure Entry Points: Limit the number of open doors and monitor them with staff or security personnel.
Window Displays: Remove high-value items from view to reduce temptation and risk of looting.
Scaffolding Awareness: Alert security if scaffolding is present, as it can be used to access upper floors.
Surveillance & Monitoring
CCTV Coverage: Ensure all cameras are operational, recording at high resolution, and covering key access points.
Live Monitoring: Assign staff or security to actively monitor feeds during the event.
Lighting Checks: Verify that all external lighting is functional to deter concealment and improve visibility.