Bureaus > Robbery > Crime Prevention Tips

The crime of robbery is usually motivated by financial gain and is carried out by an individual(s) seeking to cause fear and control of a victim(s). In most cases, a weapon will be involved. The victim may be pre-selected or chosen by random opportunity. The victim may be in their own surroundings, such as a home invasion, or in a public area, such as a parking lot or shopping center. While not all criminal contact can be avoided, there are some crime prevention practices which can greatly reduce your chances of being victimized.

ROBBERY PREVENTION TIPS

AT HOME

• Do not advertise that you live alone.
• Do not allow individuals you do not know into your home.
• Be aware of fake emergencies or reasons people might give you to make you feel they need help. Keep the door locked - call the police for them.
• Trust your gut instincts when seeing or hearing something out of the ordinary or suspicious.

OUTSIDE

• Be alert at all times. Remain audibly and visually aware of your surroundings.
• When driving, be extra alert at intersections and stop lights.
• Do not allow individuals you do not know into your car.
• Park in well lit areas.
• Walk with friends or in a group in open, well-lit areas.
• Be cautious of groups of individuals who may be paying attention to you.
• Do not display targeted items such as cash, wallets and expensive jewelry.
• Avoid using isolated ATM machines.
• Trust your gut instincts when seeing or hearing something out of the ordinary or suspicious.

BUSINESSES

• Develop a specific robbery plan for your business and discuss it in detail with employees.
• Restrict access to offices and employee areas.
• Maintain visibility that allows you to easily see both inside and outside the store - keep doors and windows clear of signs and posters.
• Never count money in the open.
• Practice good cash control. Keep a minimum amount of cash in drawers and make regular drops into a safe.
• Maintain working alarms, lighting, cameras and locks.
• Set camera angles for optimum view.
• Always have at least two employees working.
• Vary your banking routine.
• Keep all “non-business” doors locked. Never prop them open.
• Install a back door peep hole.
• Trust your gut instincts when seeing or hearing something out of the ordinary or suspicious.