13 Feb Outbreak of retail burglaries – preventative measures

The metropolitan Police tell us there has been a spate of retail burglaries in Bermondsey Street recently, mostly as a result of a burglar bearkign glass in wondows or doors. Here is  the Police advice to retailers. This is a shortened version. If you would like to the full PDF, email hello@bermondseystreet.london.

1 Keep the exterior free of rubbish. Remove graffiti or report to the local council.

2 Identify areas that may be vulnerable to forced entry and make them more secure. Service doors should be locked when not in use. Doors and windows should be burglar-resistant. External shutters or anti-ram raid bollards may be useful but could require planning permission.

3 Install a monitored alarm and CCTV and keep them operational. CCTV should be pointed at vulnerable spots and provide good quality images and facial recognition.

4 Store bins where they can’t be used to climb in.  Make sure there is sufficient lighting, especially in loading areas. Prune back bushes that could be used as a hiding place.

5 Try not to keep cash overnight and move high value goods away from the window overnight. Keep stock out of sight in a locked storage area. Use a bolted down safe.

Picture courtesy of Metro News