Security is a critical concern for restaurant owners, as threats to their establishment can result in financial losses, damage to property, and safety risks to customers and employees.
In fact, breaking and entering was the third most common claim for restaurants in Canada, according to Federated Insurance’s internal claims data. The average loss was about $8,000, but the highest claim came in at over $90,000.
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to improve restaurant security and protect your business. In this blog, we will explore ten strategies that can help protect your restaurant and strengthen your overall security system.
1 - Train Employees on Security Procedures
Training employees on security procedures is essential in ensuring that everyone in the restaurant is aware of potential security risks and knows how to respond appropriately. This can include training on proper cash handling procedures, how to identify and respond to suspicious behaviour, and emergency response procedures.
2 - Install a Verified Security Solution
Traditional CCTV is not an effective way to secure your restaurant, it merely records what’s happening on your premises without verifying whether the threat is real. Most CCTV alarms are false alarms, and, as a result police respond slowly to them (if they even do respond).
Verified security solutions for restaurants are far more effective. Verified alarms are monitored 24/7 by security experts who are able to monitor whether a threat is real before alerting the police.
Since these alarms are verified, police response times average just 3.5 minutes - meaning apprehension rates are high, and criminals rarely make it off with valuable items.
3 - Secure Entry Points
Securing entry points, including doors and windows, is crucial in preventing unauthorized access and potential security threats. This can include installing locks, using security screens, and installing window bars. By securing entry points, restaurants can prevent break-ins and ensure that their establishment is better protected from potential security threats.
4 - Limit Cash Handling
Limiting the amount of cash on hand and implementing proper cash handling procedures can help reduce the risk of theft and improve restaurant security. This can include using cash registers with limited access, regular cash drops, and secure cash handling procedures. Limiting cash on hand can also help to reduce employee theft in your restaurant.
5 - Implement Access Control Measures
Implementing access control measures, including key or card access systems, can help prevent unauthorized access and improve restaurant security. This can include limiting access to certain areas of the restaurant, such as storage areas or offices.
6 - Conduct Background Checks on Employees
Conducting background checks on employees is an essential step in ensuring the safety and security of your restaurant. This can help identify potential risks and prevent individuals with a criminal history from gaining employment.
7 - Perform Regular Inspections
Performing regular inspections of the restaurant, including entry points, storage areas, and equipment, can help identify potential security vulnerabilities and address them before they become a threat. This can include checking for damaged locks, broken windows, or other security risks.
8 - Train Employees on Emergency Response Procedures
Training employees on emergency response procedures, including fire safety and medical emergencies, is essential in ensuring the safety of customers and employees. This can include providing regular training sessions, conducting drills, and posting emergency response plans in visible locations throughout the restaurant.
9 - Conduct Risk Assessments
Conducting regular risk assessments of the restaurant can help identify potential security vulnerabilities and address them before they become a threat. This can include assessing the security of entry points, cash handling procedures, and the effectiveness of security measures such as cameras and alarms.
By conducting risk assessments, restaurants can stay ahead of potential security threats and ensure that their establishment is secure and protected. Additionally, it can help identify areas where additional security measures may be necessary.
10 - Keep Sensitive Information Secure
Restaurants may store sensitive information such as employee records, financial data, and customer information. It is essential to keep this information secure to protect the restaurant and its customers from potential security breaches. This can include utilizing secure storage methods, limiting access to sensitive information, and implementing encryption and password protection measures.
Are you interested in learning how you can better secure your restaurant or other commercial business with Sonitrol Western Canada? Get a free security plan for your premises today.
