Running a small business means that you have many jobs. You are responsible for every facet of the business and making sure everything runs smoothly. With so much on your plate, it’s easy for security to go to the bottom of the list. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what criminals are counting on. Many small businesses unknowingly leave their business vulnerable to theft, vandalism, oreven fraud. Here are some of the most common security mistakes small business owners make—and how to avoid them.
Relying on Locks Alone
A lock is important and helpful but depending singularly on locks calls attention to the biggest mistake business owners make when thinking of security. It relies on a single layer approach, while the most effective security systems have multiple layers to their security. So, keep your locks, but be sure to combine them with alarms, motion sensors, cameras and lighting to increase security.
Ignoring Your Cameras
Cameras are not a one-time place and forget it security measure. Reviewing cameras for updates, new models with better resolution and even re-evaluating placement as your business changes, grows or even after a storm. Cameras are critical to police investigations and insurance claims…don’t miss the action by ignoring your cameras.
Self-Monitoring
You need 24/7 professional monitoring. Trying to grow and run a successful business and be your own on-call security team will wear you down and it’s so easy to fix. Partner with a company that will be your eyes and ears and can alert authorities immediately when there is a problem.
Not Limiting Employee Access
We don’t want to think the people we hire are out to take advantage of us, but the truth is, a lot of theft takes place internally. Managing access codes, limits who can get to sensitive information and can also provide a log sheet of who accessed certain areas during the day. Make sure to revoke access to all past employees and change codes and passwords regularly.
Cheap Options
Low-cost security systems could still mean big losses in the end. Poor quality cameras, limited monitoring or old equipment could save you a little money initially but cost you dearly in the event of a theft or other incident.
Inconsistent or Nonexistent Routine Security Checks.
Regular inspections ensure your equipment is always in top working order. These inspections can also call attention to any gaps in security, compromised features due to age, power or even weather events. Just like you maintain a vehicle, you have to maintain your security system through routine checks.
It’s easy to let security go by the wayside, but then something happens, and you wish you had prioritized it. Don’t make these mistakes and leave your hard work vulnerable. American Alarm can partner with you to make sure your security is tailored to the scope and needs of your business and free you up to focus on things that are most important to you in your business.